TIRANA, January 16 – Bajram Curri was born on January 16, 1862, in Gjakova. He became one of the key figures of the Albanian national movement at the turn of the 20th century.

He began his political activity within the League of Peja in 1899–1900. Soon after, he emerged as a leading figure in the anti-Ottoman uprisings of 1908–1912.

Curri fought for Albania’s autonomy and the protection of its territorial integrity.

At the same time, he supported the development of education in Kosova. He backed the “Bashkimi” Club in Skopje and promoted Albanian-language schooling and the alphabet adopted by the Congress of Manastir.

As a commander, Curri led major uprisings between 1910 and 1912. After Independence, he entered the political life of the new Albanian state.

He also fought in Kosova against Serbian rule and opposed the decisions of the Great Powers at the London Conference of 1913.

In 1918, Curri became a member of the “National Defense of Kosova” Committee and one of its main leaders.

Two years later, he took part in the Congress of Lushnja and joined the National Council.

During the political developments of the 1920s, he aligned with the liberal-democratic camp. He supported the June Movement and the government of Fan Noli.

Bajram Curri was killed on March 29, 1925, in Dragobi, Tropoja. He remains a symbol of resistance, national unity, and freedom.

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