History of the Conflict in the Balkans.
The conflict in the Balkans is a very interesting topic. For years, reporters and politicians have touted it as being the result of ancient ethnic hatred. However, this wasn't always the case. In fact, the people of this region lived together peacefully for centuries and any conflicts that have arose among these people were not only based on ethnic origin but on other things such as class, ruling party, etc. For example, the problems that have arose in the former Yugoslavia had to do with the issues raised by nationalism that developed during World War II as well centuries of two different peoples living together (Serbians and Albanians). Thus, if a nation can not settle its internal conflict, then change would not be an option. .
This paper will explore the history of the conflict in the Balkans; mainly between the Serbs and the Albanians. The Serbians speak the Serbian language, which primarily consists of the Cyrillic Alphabet. It also recognizes the great Serbian leader Dushan as an endearing diminutive of the word dusha, which means "soul." The majority of the Serb population are Eastern Orthodox. They seem to have a strong sense of religion. For example, a Serbian nun named Mother Tatiana said, "There is no faith in Yugoslavia. Only here in Serbia is there real faith" (Balkan Ghosts, 34). The Serbians also seem have a well reputable history in the Balkans (which they seem to be very proud of). .
The Serbians also reminiss about Old Serbia, which is seen as the "Judea" of the Serbian national consciousness. It is now known as modern-day Kossovo. Old Serbia is the birthplace of the first Serbian state headed by the great Stefan Nemanja. His son, Saint Sava, founded and .
organized the Serbian Orthodox Church. Among other things, the Serbians are known for their illustrious medieval art, which exhibited spiritual and supernatural elements (Balkan Ghosts, 32).
