228: The Roman protectorate in modern-day Albania formed, Illyrians lose the lands between Bojana and Vojuša rivers.

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The Roman Protectorate in Illyria (228 BCE) - The Shifting Balance of Power in the Balkans

Introduction

In 228 BCE, Rome established a protectorate over parts of Illyria (modern-day Albania and Montenegro), marking a significant shift in the balance of power in the Adriatic and the broader Balkan region. This event followed the First Illyrian War (229-228 BCE), where Rome intervened against the expansionist Illyrian queen Teuta, whose piracy had threatened Roman and Greek maritime interests.

Background: The Rise of Illyrian Power

Before Roman intervention, the Illyrian Ardiaei tribe, under King Agron and later Queen Teuta, had expanded their influence along the Adriatic coast, raiding Greek and Italian shipping. Their aggression disrupted trade, prompting appeals from Greek colonies (such as Issa and Epidamnus) to Rome for assistance.

The First Illyrian War (229-228 BCE)

Rome, seeking to secure its Adriatic trade routes and protect allies, dispatched a large fleet and army. The Romans swiftly defeated Teuta's forces, capturing key strongholds like Corcyra (Corfu) and besieging her capital, Rhizon (modern Risan). By 228 BCE, Teuta surrendered, accepting harsh terms:

Loss of Territory: The Illyrians were forced to cede lands between the Bojana (Buna) and Vojuša rivers (likely in modern Montenegro and northern Albania).
Roman Protectorate: Rome established a sphere of influence, installing Demetrius of Pharos (a former ally of Teuta) as a client ruler over parts of Illyria.
Restrictions on Illyrian Navy: The treaty limited Illyrian warships south of Lissus (modern Lezhë, Albania), effectively curbing their piracy.

Consequences

Roman Expansion into the Balkans: This was Rome's first major military intervention east of the Adriatic, setting a precedent for future involvement in Greece and Macedonia.
Weakened Illyrian Power: Though Illyria remained semi-independent, its influence waned, and Rome's dominance grew.
Future Conflicts: Demetrius of Pharos later rebelled, leading to the Second Illyrian War (220-219 BCE), further consolidating Roman control.

Legacy

The events of 228 BCE marked the beginning of Rome's long engagement with Illyria, which would eventually lead to full annexation under Emperor Augustus. The loss of territory between the Bojana and Vojuša rivers symbolized the decline of independent Illyrian power in the face of Roman expansion.