TIRANA, February 19 – Luigj Gurakuqi was born on February 19, 1879, in Shkodër. He became a central figure in Albanian history, a signatory of independence, an intellectual, and a statesman.

He studied medicine and biology at the University of Naples from 1901 to 1906. Later, he pursued studies in historiography and linguistics. Through works such as “Vargënimi n’gjuhë shqype” (Verse Construction in Albanian) and “Abetar i vogël shqyp” (Little Albanian Primer) in 1906, he began codifying metrics, establishing rules for constructing verses and stanzas. He also contributed to spreading the teaching of the Albanian language.

His role as vice-chair at the Congress of Manastir in 1908 was decisive in unifying the alphabet. In 1911 and 1912, he joined uprisings for independence.

Gurakuqi directed the Normal School of Elbasan in 1909. Later, as Minister of Education in Ismail Qemali’s government, he introduced compulsory primary education for both boys and girls.

His political activity continued with the defense of Albania’s territorial integrity at the Paris Peace Conference in 1919. Between 1921 and 1924, he served as a deputy from Shkodër and as Minister of Finance in Fan Noli’s government. During this time, he promoted democratization in the country.

After the fall of this government, he emigrated to Italy. His life ended tragically following an assassination in Bari on March 2, 1925.

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