Английская Википедия:Albanian-Epirote War (1381–84)

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Шаблон:Infobox military conflict The Albanian-Epirote War of 1381–84 was waged between Albanian raiders and Despotate of Epirus, ruled and led by Thomas II Preljubović.[1][2] Throughout the campaigns, Thomas earned the nickname 'Albanian-slayer' for the cruelty he exhibited towards captured Albanian prisoners.

Prelude and Warfare

In the 1340s, Serbian and Albanian invasions of Epirus diminished Byzantine domination in the Balkans. These invasions triggered a shift in the political landscape of the Byzantine Empire, emphasizing issues related to nationalities. By the 14th century, Ioannina was primarily inhabited by Greeks, a demographic preference of the local Greek population.[3] Individuals holding the title of 'Despot of Epirus' sometimes incorporated the expulsion of Albanians from the region into their political agenda. This strategy was employed by figures such as Nikephoros II Orsini and Thomas Preljubović to garner support from the Greek population. In 1389, during the initial years of Preljubović's rule, Ioannina was ravaged by a plague, weakening Epirus' political standing. Additionally, Epirus faced persistent Albanian raids, prompting the people of Epirus to seek a leader capable of protecting them against these continuous attacks.[4] "Preljubović, an ethnic Serb, made earnest efforts to fulfill the role of protector of Epirus. His particularly harsh treatment of Albanians earned him the nickname 'Albanian slayer'.[5][3][1] Although he ruled Epirus, Preljubović's army was predominantly made up of Serbs. Without them, Ioannina would likely have fallen to the Albanians.[4]

In 1380, Preljubović enlisted Ottoman support in his army and launched an offensive against the territories of Albanian raiders. The offensive reached its peak in upper Thyamis, capturing several villages. However, in 1384, Preljubović was assassinated by some of his own bodyguards, bringing an abrupt end to the offensive campaign.[1][2]

References

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