by Mickey Haxhiislami.

On 6 August 1878, Albanian journalist and publicist Anastas Byku published the first issue of “Pellazgu Promete” (Pelasgos o Prometheus), continuing his efforts to promote Albanian identity, language, and national awareness through the press.

Earlier, in 1861, Byku had founded “Pellazgu” (Pelasgos), one of the earliest periodicals associated with the Albanian national movement, published in both Albanian and Greek. The newspaper was closed by Greek authorities, and Byku faced persecution for his activities. His 1878 publication, “Promytheus o Pelasgos,” appeared exclusively in Greek and became another important expression of Albanian national consciousness.

Byku’s ideas reflected the complex debates of his time: he advocated Albanian unity beyond religious divisions while also promoting close historical ties between Albanians and Greeks, whom he considered connected through ancient Pelasgian origins. These views later distanced him from some activists of the Albanian National Awakening who emphasized a distinct Albanian national identity.