Demir Lena (1855–1944) was an Albanian nationalist and military leader, known for his role in the fight against Serbian and Greek forces during the Balkan Wars and Albania's struggle for independence. He led local Albanian fighters in several important battles to protect the regions of Struga, Ohër, and Dibra.
Demir Lena | |
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| Personal details | |
| Born | Demir Lena 1855 Struga, North Macedonia |
| Died | 1944 (aged 88–89) Struga, North Macedonia |
| Cause of death | Natural Causes |
| Nationality | Albanian |
Early life
editDemir Lena was born in 1855 in the village of Ladorisht, near Struga (now in North Macedonia). Growing up in a period when the Ottoman Empire was weakening, Lena witnessed many attempts by neighboring countries to take control of Albanian lands.[1][2] This fueled his passion for defending Albania’s territories and fighting for independence.[citation needed]
Role in the Balkan Wars
editDuring the Balkan Wars (1912–1913), Demir Lena became one of the most important leaders of the Albanian resistance against Serbian forces. He served as a deputy commander of the Struga Battalion, also known as the "Tabori of Struga," alongside Riza Ajro, another key commander.[citation needed]
One of his most famous battles was the Battle of Petrinja in late September 1913. The Albanian fighters, led by Lena and others, took position in the mountains near Petrinja to block the Serbian army from advancing.[3]
The fighting was intense, and Lena's battalion managed to hold off the Serbs for five days. However, after running out of ammunition, they were forced to retreat. Lena was injured in the battle but managed to escape to Pogradec, where he was treated by fellow Albanians.
Continued resistance
editEven after being wounded, Demir Lena continued his fight. He regrouped with Albanian forces and formed alliances with other well-known resistance leaders, including Sali Butka. Together, they fought against both Serbian and Greek forces, which were trying to seize parts of Albania.[4]
In 1914, Lena's battalion participated in the Battle of Nikolicë, a critical clash against Greek troops attempting to occupy Korçë. Although the Albanian fighters bravely defended their land, many lives were lost in the battle.[5]
Legacy
editLena is remembered as a brave and dedicated leader who fought to protect Albania’s independence. His efforts, especially during the Balkan Wars, helped slow down the advance of enemy forces and inspired others to join the resistance. Lena's life and heroism are celebrated in Albanian history, and his name is honored in local songs and stories passed down through generations.[6]
References
edit- ^ "Lufta e Petrinjës". Ladorishti.com. Retrieved 7 September 2024.
- ^ "Struga and Albanian Resistance". VoxStruga. Retrieved 7 September 2024.
- ^ "Lufta e Petrinjës". Ladorishti.com. Retrieved 7 September 2024.
- ^ "History of Struga". Struga.org. Retrieved 7 September 2024.
- ^ "Kryengritja e Dibrës e Shtatorit 1913". Pashtriku.org. Retrieved 7 September 2024.
- ^ "Këngë Iso Ladorishti - Demir Lena". YouTube. 6 October 2010. Retrieved 7 September 2024.