National Awakening (Rilindja)

The National Awakening, or Rilindja, was a cultural and political movement in the late 19th and early 20th centuries aimed at revitalizing Albanian identity, language, and independence. It emerged in response to foreign domination and Ottoman decline, fostering pride in Albanian heritage, literature, and history. The movement encouraged the use of the Albanian language and promoted national unity, laying the groundwork for the country's eventual independence in 1912. Essentially, Rilindja was about Albanians rediscovering and strengthening their national consciousness to achieve self-determination and preserve their cultural uniqueness.