Pashaliks

In the second half of the XVIII century, the Albanian feudal lords were able to create two large vilayets: the Pashalik of Shkodra and the Pashalik of Janina.

Their basic strategic and military concept entailed organization of a large and prepared army. The armies of the pashaliks consisted of land and naval forces. In both pashalëks, the land component, which played the main role, consisted of Infantry, Cavalry and Artillery, while the Naval component was more developed in the Pashalik of Janina.

The number of forces for each pashalik in peacetime did not exceed 20,000 warriors. Forces underwent a rapid increase during wartime mobilizations. In the Pashalik of Janina this number reached 40,000 soldiers, while in the Pashalik of Shkodra to 60,000.

Regarding the supply of the armies with weapons and other technical tools and equipment, efforts were made by both sides, by Ali Pasha Tepelena and Karamahmut Pasha Bushatlliu. Large quantities of rifles, muskets, cannons were bought from Europe and plenty of ammunition was obtained. Both dynasties were able to develop craftsmanship, including the production of firearms and gunpowder.

The efforts of the leaders of the pashaliks to break away from the Ottoman Empire failed, because, despite the fact that the main element was Albanian, they never thought of creating an Independent Albania. The nation-state concept did not exist yet, Albanian political thought had not been formed and the Army was based on the of mercenary principles rather than national pride.

15 flintlock weapons produced by Albanian gunsmiths such as the famous Karajfile and Kobure rifles are on display for the period of the Pashaliks.