The appropriation of Skanderbeg by Balkan historiographies - the {mis}use of historical sources -

Abstract

George Kastriot Skanderbeg is well-known World figure. In the Middle Ages he was the undisputed leader in the struggle against Ottomans not only in the territories of present-day Albania and northwestern parts of Macedonia but throughout the Balkans and even wider at least in Italy and Vatican. With this in mind, the huge interest in modern historiography for this striking person is not surprising at all. What is surprising is the attempt by some researchers especially in the Balkans to overlook significant deeds of Skanderbeg and reduce it to his appropriation. The appropriation of Skanderbeg by Balkan historiographies is mainly made on two grounds: religious and ethnic one. The former is less exposed while the latter is more exploited.