The Illyrians

The Illyrians were an ancient group of tribes that inhabited the western Balkans, primarily in what is now Albania, Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Montenegro. They emerged around the 6th century BCE and were known for their warrior culture, maritime activities, and rich trade links. The Illyrians spoke a language distinct from their neighbors and were influenced by Greek and Roman cultures. Over time, they faced increased pressure from these civilizations and ultimately fell under Roman control by the 1st century BCE, leading to their gradual assimilation into the Roman Empire.