THE REGION OF ELBASAN DURING THE OCCUPATION BY AUSTRIA-HUNGARIAN ARMY (1916-1918)

Abstract

The arrival of the Austro-Hungarian forces in Elbasan was not opposed by most of the patriots of the region, and those who had emigrated abroad for various reasons. Patriots in the region of Elbasan benefited from the concessions made by the Austrian authorities in the interest of national movement. The economic situation in the region of Elbasan was still difficult. Besides the lack of grain, the biggest problem that existed at this time was speculations by some people who benefited from this difficult situation to be enriched by increasing grain prices. Poverty and economic collapse made it difficult living in this period, this condition had a negative impact on social morality, the health of the population and increasing mortality among the poor population. Austro- Hungarian authorities during this time took several actions to improve the situation but the misery was still present and food prices were not lowered. Austro-Hungarian authorities established in Elbasan and in several other cities military offices, which recruited Albanian soldiers, who were led by Austrian officers. Austro- Hungarian authorities undertook action to disarm the local population by collecting all the weapons in the region of Elbasan. During this time the Austro-Hungarians built a post office in the city of Elbasan, also raises an Austrian trading agency in the city of Elbasan to promote trade in this region.