ABSTRACT
Albania's ruling Communist party was a product of war – a war not only against fascism, following the country's occupation by Italian troops in 1939, but also a war waged within the party's ranks. For an inexperienced party, Yugoslav backing seemed essential in the 1940s, although Belgrade would later exaggerate its role and the Albanian party leadership – embarrassed by its Yugoslav ties once bilateral relations had soured – would vehemently deny it. Heading its party was Enver Hoxha, a teacher-turned-activist who spent his student years in France and Belgium, later joining the Communist ranks at home. He signaled sympathy for the Chinese position but also kept insisting on the importance of the Soviet Union and the need for resolving disputes through proper tactics. For their part, Chinese party functionaries were pleased that Albania seemed sympathetic to their criticisms.
