Albania



Albania is a small country in southeastern Europe.

Albania in The Gladiator
Albania had a long history of communism, and was viewed as a stalwart in the war against fascism and capitalism. Albania's neighbor, the Italian People's Republic, even named a school in Milan for Enver Hoxa, the leader of the People's Republic of Albania for nearly 50 years.

Nonetheless, Italy looked down its collective nose on its less sophisticated neighbors, although not publically, as Albanians were quick to be insulted and generally liked to carry knives.

Albania was a red-headed stepchild as far as the USSR was concerned. After Joseph Stalin's death, the USSR briefly turned its back on his legacy. Hoxha, a staunch Stalinist, turned his back on the USSR, and aligned himself with the People's Republic of China. After Hoxha's death, the USSR reembraced Stalin. However, the relationship had been permanently damaged. For decades, the USSR provided no financial aid to Albania. While the two countries were officially allies by 2097, Albania suffered internal strife as pro-Chinese guerillas fought against the government. Various countries, including Italy, had troops in Albania to help keep the guerrillas down, with limited success.

Albania in In the Presence of Mine Enemies
Albania was annexed to the Italian Empire during World War II.

Albanian in Worldwar
Albania was annexed to the Greater German Reich during World War II.