Llazar Bozo

{{Short description|Albania freedom fighter (1882–1956)}} {{Infobox person | name = Llazar Bozo | image = Kapedan_Llazar_Bozo.jpg | other_names = Kapedan Llazar Bozo | birth_date = {{Birth date|1882|1||df=yes}} | birth_place = [[Kolonjë, Fier]], [[Ottoman Empire]] (now [[Albania]]) | death_date = {{Death date and age|1956|04|18|1882|1||df=yes}} | death_place = [[Albania]] | monuments = Park and monument in [[Lushnjë]] Street in [[Fier]] city Street in [[Kolonjë, Fier]] | occupation = {{hlist|Revolutionary|freedom-fighter|commander|philanthropist|administrator}} | known_for = Anti-Ottoman independentist activities Liberation of Lushnja [[1914–1915 Muslim revolts in Albania]] [[Congress of Lushnjë]] [[Vlora War]] Atdheu Federation [[June Revolution]] 1935 Uprisings of Fier WWII [[National Liberation Movement (Albania)]] [[Peza Conference]] Conference of Labinot 1943-1944 Winter Operation (Albania) [[LANÇ counter-offensive in Albania (1944)]] [[Congress of Përmet]] Autocephaly of the Orthodox Church [[Congress of Berat]] Ecclesiastical Congress of Korça | notable_works = Caretaker of Holy Trinity Chapel, Bell tower, Church of Saint Mary and [[Ardenica Monastery]] Co-founder and donor of the [[Myzeqe]] boarding school in [[Ardenica Monastery]] | movement = [[Albanian National Awakening]] [[1914–1915 Muslim revolts in Albania]] [[Congress of Lushnjë]] [[Vlora War]] Atdheu Federation [[June Revolution]] 1935 Uprisings of Fier WWII [[National Liberation Movement (Albania)]] Autocephaly of the Albanian Orthodox Church | spouse = Kaliopi Bozo (née: Goxhomani) | honours = Citizen of Honor [[Lushnjë]] [[Order of the Flag]] [[Order of Bravery]] [[Medal of Remembrance]] | signature = }}

'''Llazar Bozo''' (January 1882 – 18 April 1956) was an Albanian activist, freedom-fighter, commander, benefactor and delegate representing [[Myzeqe]] region. Llazar Bozo was active in the political and liberation events of the [[Albanian National Awakening]], as well as in the national liberation movements of the two World Wars, events that shaped the statehood of modern [[Albania]].{{efn|<ref name=":0">Hilli Liko, “Kapedan Llazar Bozo” monografi, Globus R Tiranë 2001, {{ISBN|99927-44-55-3}}</ref><ref name=":1">Jovan Mina Bizhyti, “Myzeqeja, vendlindja ime”, ASD Art Studio Designer Tiranë 2023 {{ISBN|978-9928-4648-6-6}}</ref><ref name=":15">Xhoxhi Robo, Jovan Bizhyti, “Historiku i LANC-it të rrethit të Lushnjes”, ASD Art Studio Designer Tiranë 2005</ref><ref name=":2">Jovan Mina Bizhyti, “Vllehët e Shqipërisë - histori dhe kujtime”, Botimet KUMI 2023, {{ISBN|978-9928-340-80-1}}</ref><ref>Andrea Llukani,“Mitropolia e Beratit”, Botimet “Trifon Xhagjika”, 2020

https://albanianorthodox.com/wp-content/uploads/MITROPOLIA_E_BERATIT.pdf</ref><ref name=":16">24 maj 1944–16 dhjetor 1945 Anëtarët e Këshillit Antifashist Nacionalçlirimtar</ref><ref name=":3">Spiro Moisiu, Zëri i Popullit, datë 21 janar 1980.</ref><ref name=":8">Gazeta Dielli, 5.6.1914</ref><ref name=":9">Gazeta Populli 24.06.1914</ref><ref name=":10">Gazeta “Zëri i Shqipërisë” 29.03.1915</ref><ref name=":11">Mihal Grameno, “Kryengritja Shqiptare” 1925 p. 163-164</ref><ref name=":17">Gazeta Rilindja Demokratike nr.462. datë 10.09.1993)</ref><ref name=":18">Gazeta Rilindja Demokratike Prof.dr. Koli Xoxi “Kush ishte Llazar Bozo?” 16.09.1996</ref><ref name=":19">Naun Kristo Kule, KOASH 1999 Rrefimet e Ardenices, p. 70-72</ref><ref name=":12">Kozma Gjini, Kongresi i Lushnjes dhe Llazar Bozo, Gazeta Telegraf 20.01.2021

https://telegraf.al/speciale/kozma-gjini-kongresi-i-lushnjes-dhe-llazar-bozo/</ref><ref name=":4">Mihal Grameno, “Kryengritja Shqiptare” 1925 faqe 201</ref><ref name=":5">Akte të Rilindjes Kombëtare Shqiptare 1878-1912. Tiranë 1978, p. 222</ref><ref name=":6">Gazeta “Liria e Shqypnisë”, nr. 18, 07.07.1911.</ref><ref name=":13">Kaliopi Naska, Andriola Kambo, “Tirana 11 shkurt 1920 – kryeqytet i Shqipërië”, Kristalina KH, Tiranë, 2016 {{ISBN|978-9928-171-40-5}}</ref><ref name=":14">AQSH fond 252, file 86, year 1921, document 168.</ref><ref name=":20">AQSH, year 1935, file “Notes of Mr. Hekal”, p.252, page</ref><ref name=":21">Jovan, Byzhyti, “Krijimi i Çetës së parë partizane të Myzeqesë në fshatin Kolonjë”, Gazeta Telegraf, 21 Dhjetor, 2018 https://telegraf.al/dosier/krijimi-i-cetes-se-pare-partizane-te-myzeqese-ne-fshatin-kolonje/</ref><ref name=":22">Mihal Gjini, “78-vjetori i krijimit të batalionit të parë partizan të Myzeqesë”, Gazeta Telegraf, 17 Prill, 2021 https://telegraf.al/speciale/78-vjetori-i-krijimit-te-batalionit-te-pare-partizan-te-myzeqese/</ref><ref name=":23">Kristofor Beduli, Episkop Irine Banushi martir i Kishës Orthodhokse Autoqefale të Shqipërisë, Tiranë, 2000, p. 80.</ref><ref name=":24">Andrea Llukani, “Mitropolia e Beratit”, Botimet “Trifon Xhagjika”, 2020, p. 23, 33, 35, 36, 122, 177

https://albanianorthodox.com/wp-content/uploads/MITROPOLIA_E_BERATIT.pdf</ref><ref>Albanian ethnography. Science Academy. 1976.</ref><ref name=":7">Jovan Bizhyti, Bozollarët, Grabovarët e Myzeqesë, Gazeta Dita 16.02.2020

https://arkiva.gazetadita.al/bozollaret-grabovaret-e-myzeqese/</ref><ref name=":25">Kaliopi Naska, “Kongresi Themeltar i Kishës Ortodokse Autoqefale në Berat”, 70 Vjet të Kishës Ortodokse Autoqefale Shqiptare (Tiranë: Instituti i Historisë, 1993), p. 14-15.</ref><ref name=":26">DOKUMENTI I PLANIT TË VEPRIMIT TË TURIZMIT 2023 - 2028, Bashkia Lushnje.

''“Ndërtuar rishtas nga kujdestari i këtij Manastiri Zoti Llazar Bozo, nga katundi Kolonjë, më 29 Maj 1925”.''

''"Në vitin 1922 patrioti Llazar Bozo duke qënë administrator i këtij manastiri, së bashku me patriot të tjerë që shërbenin pranë shkollës ngritën një kovikt me ushqim për nxënësit e varfër nga e gjithë Myzeqeja pa dalim feje."''</ref>}}

== Early life == Llazar Bozo was born in January 1882 in [[Kolonjë, Fier]], in [[Ottoman Albania]] (now, modern Albania) of [[Aromanians|Aromanian]] origin with early roots from [[Grabovë e Sipërme|Grabovë]], [[Albania]].<ref name=":0" /><ref name=":1" /><ref name=":2" /><ref name=":7" />

During the depopulation wave of the Aromanian settlements of [[Grabovë e Sipërme|Grabovë]] and [[Moscopole]] in the late 17th and 18th century, his family had to flee and move to [[Kolonjë, Fier|Kolonjë]] in [[Myzeqe]] region in [[Albania]].<ref name=":1" /><ref name=":2" /><ref name=":7" />

Llazar studied in the school of the [[Ardenica Monastery]].<ref name=":0" />

Llazar Bozo's wealth had its source from his activities in producing and international trading of manufacture, jewelry, tobacco, wine, olive oil, food and clothing.<ref name=":0" /><ref name=":1" /><ref name=":2" /><ref name=":7" />

== Independence movement ==

=== Komitadji === Llazar Bozo began his activity as a [[Komitadji]] ([[Albanian language|Albanian]]: ''Komit'') in 1906 and gets involved in anti-Ottoman activities with other komitas and freedom-fighters with whom he had friendship such as [[Çerçiz Topulli]], [[Mihal Grameno]], [[Themistokli Gërmenji]] etc.<ref name=":0" />

His activities during this period were mainly in the regions of [[Berat]], [[Korçë|Korcë]], [[Gjirokastër]].<ref name=":0" />

The victory of the [[Battle of Mashkullorë]] ([[Albanian language|Albanian]]: ''Beteja e Mashkullorës'') after the [[Binbashi|Ottoman binbashi]] of [[Gjirokastër]] was assassinated on February 25, 1908, by the [[Cheta (armed group)|cheta]] of Albanian rebels led by [[Çerçiz Topulli]], triggered the premises for a general anti-Ottoman uprising.<ref name=":4" />

In 1910 Llazar Bozo with other [[komitadji]]s, created a first [[Cheta (armed group)|cheta]] of armed rebel fighters and performed attacks against the authorities of the [[Ottoman Empire|Ottoman]] garrisons in [[Lushnjë]].<ref name=":0" />

In 1911, the organised [[Cheta (armed group)|chetas]] were circulating in the [[Karbunarë|Karbunare]] forests, [[Lushnjë]].<ref name=":0" />

In May 1911, the “Freedom or Death” uprising Committee ([[Albanian language|Albanian]]: ''Komiteti kryengritës “Liri o vdekje”'') in [[Vlorë]], planned the armed uprising program against the [[Ottoman Empire|Ottoman]] regime, and Albanians were preparing for general armed revolts in [[Mirditë]], [[Shkodër]], [[Kosovo|Kosovë]] and [[Southern Albania|Toskëri]] in south [[Albania]].<ref name=":5" /><ref name=":6" />

In the [[Myzeqe]] region was decided to attack the [[Ottoman Empire|Ottoman]] military garrisons of [[Lushnjë]].

Three [[Cheta (armed group)|chetas]] of armed fighters led respectively by Llazar Bozo, Taulla Sinani and Besim Nuri attacked the Ottoman military garrisons and administration, liberated [[Lushnjë|Lushnja]] and raised the [[Flag of Albania|Albanian flag]].<ref name=":0" />

=== Declaration of independence ===

==== Context ==== On November 19, 1912, after a diplomatic campaign in Europe, patriots led by [[Ismail Qemali|Ismail Qemal Bey Vlora]] set off from [[Trieste]], [[Italy]] to [[Durrës]], [[Albania]].

The city of [[Vlorë|Vlora]] was blockaded by the [[Hellenic Navy|Greek military fleet]].

On November 11, 1912, [[Ismail Qemali]] set off with delegates from central [[Albania]] from [[Durrës]] towards [[Vlorë|Vlora]] to declare the independence of [[Albania]] on November 28, 1912.

The Ottoman Wali of [[Ioannina]], in a secret telegram ordered that [[Ismail Qemali]] be arrested dead or alive as soon as he entered [[Lushnjë|Lushnja]]. For this, a detachment of Ottoman gendarmes was sent to the village of Gramsh, [[Lushnjë|Lushnja]].<ref name=":0" />

==== Mission ==== [[Ismail Qemali]]'s arrest was prevented thanks to the patriots and the [[Myzeqe]].<ref name=":0" />

[[Ismail Qemali]] was able to pass safely through the villages of Cermë Bicak, Cermë Boshk, Cermë Pasha, Cermë Ciflik, Sulzotaj, Divjakë, Xeng, Mizë, Kryekuq, Babunjë, Libofshë.<ref name=":0" />

Until the village of Petovë, [[Ismail Qemali]] was accompanied by the [[Libofshë]] patriots Ikonom Dhima, Tuni Gjergji, Zoi Marini, Zoi Ndreko, etc.<ref name=":0" />

Llazar Bozo and his [[Cheta (armed group)|cheta]] of armed fighters ensured [[Ismail Qemali]] a safe passage through the [[Myzeqe]] region, from Cerma, the [[Ardenica Monastery|Ardenica monastery]] and [[Libofshë]] to [[Vlorë|Vlora]], where was held the act of declaring the independence of Albania in the [[Assembly of Vlorë]] on November 28, 1912.<ref name=":3" /><ref name=":0" />

Llazar Bozo communicated to [[Ismail Qemali]] the joyful news of the liberation of [[Lushnjë|Lushnja]], with [[Myzeqe]] region and of the raising of the [[Flag of Albania|Albanian flag]] in [[Lushnjë|Lushnja]], on November 27, 1912 that took place a few days before the declaration of [[Albanian Independence Congress|Albanian independence]] in [[Vlorë|Vlora]] on November 28, 1912.<ref name=":0" />

== World War I == In 1913, all southern [[Albania]], except for [[Vlorë|Vlora]] and [[Berat]], was under Greek occupation.

Northern Albania was under Serbo-Montenegrin occupation.

In central Albania, after the withdrawal of Serbian forces, [[Essad Toptani|Essad Pasha Toptani]] established his power, who on October 12, 1913 gathered an "Elderly" in [[Durrës]] and proclaimed a separate government. The ties with the Vlora government were severed.

Two centers of power were created in [[Albania]]. The [[Vlora Government]] and the [[Essad Toptani|Essad Pasha Toptani]] [[Toptani Government|Government]] that was mainly supported by the great landlords and the great Ottoman era beys.

Llazar Bozo sided with the principles of the declaration of Albanian independence by [[Ismail Qemali]] of the [[Vlorë|Vlora]] government.

=== Peasant Revolts 1913-1915 === In [[Myzeqe]] region, the oppression of the peasantry was severe.

Llazar Bozo with his armed groups, fought against the power and the forces of [[Essad Toptani|Essad Pasha Toptani]] [[Toptani Government|Government]] in the years 1913-1914 during the [[1914–1915 Muslim revolts in Albania|1914–1915 Peasant revolts in Albania]].<ref name=":0" />

On January 24, 1913, the [[Lushnjë|Lushnja]] platoons commanded by Llazar Bozo and Taullah Sinani destroyed the [[Essad Toptani|Essadist]] forces led by [[Dervish Biçaku|Dervish Bey Bicaku]].<ref name=":0" />

In May–June 1914, the rebel forces of [[Myzeqe]] region clashed in [[Krutje]] with the forces of the [[Kavajë|Kavaja]] feudal lords in fierce fighting for five days in a row. About 500-800 [[Essad Toptani|Essadist]] forces burned the villages of [[Myzeqe]] and reached [[Lushnjë|Lushnja]].<ref name=":0" /><ref name=":8" /><ref name=":9" />

The [[1914–1915 Muslim revolts in Albania|Peasant Uprising of Central Albania]] led by [[Haxhi Qamili]] also spread to [[Myzeqe]] region.

All of [[Myzeqe]] region was involved in the uprising, and defeated the forces of [[Aziz Vrioni|Azis Pasha]] etc.<ref name=":0" />

Llazar Bozo, who had initially gathered about 500 fighters, met [[Haxhi Qamili]] in [[Et'hem Bey Mosque]] in [[Tirana]] in June 1914 with the aim of coordinating the peasant uprising forces against the government forces of the [[Essad Toptani|Essad Pasha Toptani]] and the occupying Serbian-Montenegrin armies.<ref name=":0" />

On July 11, 1914 in [[Maliq]], an armistice was signed with the Greek forces.<ref name=":0" />

On July 13, 1914, the rebel forces entered [[Berat]], and the government forces left [[Fier]], which was under pressure from the insurgent forces led by Llazar Bozo. The fighting spread to the banks of the [[Vjosa|Vjosa River]].<ref name=":0" />

[[Haxhi Qamili]], led 3300 peasant rebel forces towards [[Berat]].<ref name=":0" />

The forces led by Llazar Bozo also set off towards [[Berat]], joined by the exploited farmers of the province.<ref name=":0" />

On August 8–9, 1914, the rebel forces defeated the government forces led by the prefect of [[Berat]].<ref name=":0" />

On August 11, 1914, the government forces were badly defeated by the rebel forces in [[Fier]].<ref name=":0" />

==== Aftermath of the uprising ==== [[Essad Toptani|Essad Pasha Toptani]], after emerging from the 200-day isolation imposed by [[Haxhi Qamili]]'s rebels, returns, and with the help of [[Serbian Army|Serbian]] forces that attack [[Albania]] on June 2, 1915, as well as mercenary forces, undertakes a campaign of terror against the villages that had participated in the peasant uprising.<ref name=":0" />

The rebellion was crushed.<ref name=":0" />

==== Death sentences ==== The leaders of the [[Peasant Revolt (Albania)|Peasant Uprising]], [[Haxhi Qamili]] and [[Musa Qazimi]], are sentenced to death by the court headed by [[Prince Xhelal Zogu|Xhelal Bey Zogu]].<ref name=":0" />

Llazar Bozo was also sentenced to death, in absentia, by the [[Essad Toptani|Essadist]] court headed by [[Prince Xhelal Zogu|Xhelal Zogu]].<ref name=":0" />

The court also sentenced his friend Nebi Bali, the commander of the rebel forces in the [[Peqin]] and Darsia areas, to death by hanging.<ref name=":0" />

Llazar Bozo was forced to temporarily take refuge in [[Italy]], while his house in [[Kolonjë, Fier|Kolonjë]], [[Lushnjë|Lushnje]], was burned down and his family was forced to hide in the houses of the [[Myzeqe]] people to escape reprisals.<ref name=":0" />

==== Growing reputation ==== The participation and contribution of Commander Llazar Bozo in the Albanian [[Peasant Revolt (Albania)|Peasant Uprising]] for the rights of the oppressed peasantry, further increased his authority in the [[Myzeqe]] region as a brave commander and patriot.

The newspaper “Zëri i Shqipërisë”, which was run by a committee headed by [[Themistokli Gërmenji]], in the article entitled “The Cause of the First Uprising in Myzeqe” dated March 29, 1915, describes him as “''…the tireless and famous Llazar Bozo…''”.<ref name=":10" /><ref name=":0" />

==== Pacification commissions ==== Llazar Bozo played a role in the creation of peace commissions, to unite the people against the tactics promoted by [[Essad Toptani|Essad Pasha Toptani]] forces to divide the people of [[Myzeqe]] on religious grounds in 1914.<ref name=":0" />

In a peace commission were [[Mihal Grameno]], Cilka Coruni from [[Vlorë|Vlora]], Llazar Bozo from [[Kolonjë, Fier|Kolonja]] of [[Myzeqe]], etc.<ref name=":11" /><ref name=":0" />

== Congress of Lushnjë 1920 ==

=== The necessity of a national congress === The [[Treaty of London (1915)|Treaty of London]] of April 26, 1915 that planned the division of [[Albania]].

After the agreement of August 20, 1919 of the [[Government of Durrës|provisional government of Durrës]] with [[Italy]] that recognised, among others, the sovereignty of [[Italy]] over [[Vlorë|Vlora]];

In the [[Albanian National Awakening|Albanian National Movement]] began to spread the idea of calling a national assembly, which would save the country from dissolution. The first initiatives, but without result, were undertaken by patriots in [[Tirana]], then in [[Elbasan]], [[Berat]], [[Krujë]] and [[Shijak]].<ref name=":0" />

This important task was then taken over by an initiative committee created in the city of [[Lushnjë|Lushnja]] by patriotic activists such as Llazar Bozo, Besim Nuri, Taullah Sinani, Jakov Bozo, [[Eshref Frashëri]], Zija Mullai, Andre Pepa, etc.<ref name=":0" />

=== Contribution to the congress === Llazar Bozo was a member of the Initiating Committee of the [[Congress of Lushnjë]].<ref name=":12" /><ref name=":0" />

Llazar Bozo was a [[Delegate (American politics)|delegate]], representative of [[Myzeqe]] and signatory in the proceedings of the [[Congress of Lushnjë]].<ref name=":12" /><ref name=":0" />

Llazar Bozo was charged also with the task of organising all the work for the smooth running of the [[Congress of Lushnjë]], responsible for the subcommittees for preparing the conditions for organising the [[Congress of Lushnjë]], receiving of the delegates, their accommodation and food, etc.<ref name=":0" />

Llazar Bozo was appointed Commander of the armed forces for the protection of the [[Congress of Lushnjë]].<ref name=":0" /><ref name=":12" />

The Italian army, and the [[Government of Durrës]] demonstrated military force in order to prevent the [[Congress of Lushnjë|Congress of Lushnja]].<ref name=":0" />

Two military battalions led by [[Mufid Libohova|Mufid Bey Libohova]], with the support of the commander of the Italian occupation [[Settimio Piacentini]] in [[Vlorë|Vlora]], set out to prevent the organisation of the [[Congress of Lushnjë]], but they did not succeed.<ref name=":0" />

On January 15, 1920 everything was ready for the [[Congress of Lushnjë]].<ref name=":0" />

=== Congress of Lushnja outcomes === The [[Congress of Lushnjë]] concluded its work on January 21–31, 1920.<ref name=":0" />

The decisions of the [[Congress of Lushnjë|Congress of Lushnja]] were fundamental for preserving the integrity and the future of the sovereign [[Albania]]n state. Its decisions preceded the [[Vlora War|War of Vlora]] a few months later in 1920.<ref name=":0" />

At this congress it was decided that [[Tirana]] would be declared the capital of Albania and that a new modern democratic government would be created.<ref name=":0" /><ref name=":13" />

== Vlora war 1920 == A consequence of the decisions of the [[Congress of Lushnjë|Congress of Lushnja]] was the expulsion of foreign occupying armies from the territory of independent [[Albania]].

=== Creation of the National Defence Committee of Lushnja === With the formation of the “National Defense Committee” in [[Vlorë|Vlora]], the “National Defense Committee” in [[Lushnjë|Lushnja]] was also created by Llazar Bozo, Taullah Sinani, teacher Rrapi Mërtiri, Zoi Ndreko, Naun Prifti and Sil Keqi.<ref name=":0" />

=== Elected Member of the Operational Headquarters === Captain ([[Albanian language|Albanian]]: ''Kapedan'') Llazar Bozo was elected a member of the Operational Headquarters ([[Albanian language|Albanian]]: ''Shtabi Operativ Luftarak'') that was located in [[Novoselë]], [[Vlorë|Vlora]], to coordinate combat operations in the [[Vlora War|War of Vlora]].<ref name=":0" />

=== Participation in battles === The fighters from [[Myzeqe]] region participated in the fierce liberation battles in the [[Vlora War|War of Vlora]] in 1920, mainly in [[Novoselë]], Babicë, and the surroundings of the city of [[Vlorë|Vlora]].

In July 1920, Captain (Albanian: ''Kapedan'') Llazar Bozo personally led one of the night combat operations to capture the 800m high, well-fortified concrete hill where the Italian military bases, barracks and artillery were located, directing the freedom fighters to attack from the steep cliff of the hill.<ref name=":0" />

After midnight, the fierce combat operation ended successfully for the Albanian side.<ref name=":0" />

Among the brave fighters who fell on this front were Shaban Mullahu, Tafil Shabani, Misir Cela, etc.<ref name=":0" />

When some Albanian fighters continued to kill Italian soldiers even after the latter surrendered, Captain Llazar Bozo gave the order: ''“Brothers, stop! Captives are not killed. We are not barbarians!”''.<ref name=":0" />

The Italian captive soldiers were lined up and sent to Llaktund, [[Vlorë|Vlora]].<ref name=":0" />

== Atdheu federation == Representatives of 25 democratic societies from all over [[Albania]] decided to unite in a single society that was called “Atdheu”.

The “Atdheu” Federation led by [[Avni Rustemi]] played an important role in the unification of the democratic patriotic forces of the country.<ref name=":0" />

Llazar Bozo and Zija Mullai were elected delegates from [[Lushnjë|Lushnja]] to the Congress for the formation of the great Federation “Atdheu” in the cinema “Përparimi” in [[Vlorë|Vlora]], on April 25–28, 1921.<ref name=":0" /><ref name=":14" />

The Congress had 47 delegates, 110 listeners, 5 representatives of the press.

Llazar Bozo led the centre of the "Atdheu" Federation for [[Lushnjë|Lushnja]] for a year, dealing with national issues, including meetings with his collaborators and friends [[Avni Rustemi]] and Halim Xhelo.<ref name=":0" />

== June Revolution 1924 ==

=== Delegate of assembly and member of the headquarters === On May 23, 1924 the assembly of the [[Vlorë|Vlora]] region, in the “Përparimi” theater in [[Vlorë|Vlora]], decided to join the uprising of the [[June Revolution|Democratic Anti-Bourgeois Revolution]] of June.<ref name=":0" />

Llazar Bozo was a participant in this assembly, as a delegate representing the [[Myzeqe]] region.<ref name=":0" />

Llazar Bozo was a member of the headquarters of the insurgent forces of the [[June Revolution|June Revolution 1924]].<ref name=":0" />

=== Revolution rebellion === On May 31, 1924 the two operational forces of the South depart, one from [[Vlorë|Vlora]] towards [[Fier]], the other from [[Përmet]] towards [[Berat]]. The fighting was concentrated in two directions: [[Vlorë|Vlora]]-[[Fier]]-[[Lushnjë]], [[Përmet]]-[[Berat]]-[[Lushnjë]].<ref name=":0" />

Fierce fighting took place in [[Libofshë]], [[Kolonjë, Fier|Ardenicë]] and [[Divjakë]], where government forces left over 43 people killed, including a captain and an aspirant.<ref name=":0" />

The revolutionary forces advanced in three directions: [[Peqin]]-[[Pezë]]-[[Tirana]], [[Kavajë]]-[[Ndroq]]-[[Tirana]], [[Kavajë]]-[[Shijak]]-[[Tirana]]. The rebel forces took [[Tirana]] on June 10, 1924.<ref name=":0" />

On June 16, 1924 the new government is created with [[Fan Noli]] as prime minister.<ref name=":0" />

== Uprisings of Fier 1935 ==

=== Preparations for the uprising === In 1934, Llazar Bozo and Taullah Sinani founded and led the branch of the organisation "Secret Organisation” ([[Albanian language|Albanian]]: ''“Organizata e Fshehtë”'') for [[Lushnjë|Lushnja]].<ref name=":0" />

On May 4, 1985 Llazar Bozo and [[Riza Cerova]] meet in [[Karbunarë]] to cooperate in the area of and [[Skrapar]].<ref name=":0" />

Llazar Bozo and Taullah Sinani managed to gather 200 armed forces for the anti-monarchy [[Zog I]] uprising, and together with the armed forces from Fier, the number went to over 300 forces.<ref name=":0" />

=== The uprising of Fier 1935 === On August 14, 1935 at 15h00' in front of the municipality in [[Fier]], the uprising began for the overthrow of the monarchy of King [[Zog I]], and the proclamation of the Republic.<ref name=":0" />

The insurgent forces of [[Lushnjë|Lushnja]] began the first actions.<ref name=":20" />

The uprising was compromised by the leakage of information, before the action.<ref name=":0" />

After the attack of the government forces, and the clash with them, on August 15, 1935, being outnumbered, Llazar Bozo gives the order for his forces to withdraw and disperse.<ref name=":0" />

The uprising forces disperse in the hills of [[Lushnjë|Lushnja]], [[Durrës]], [[Divjakë]], [[Fier]] and [[Mallakastër]].<ref name=":0" />

=== Aftermath of the uprising === The uprising was suppressed by the government og king [[Zog I]] taking repressive measures.

On August 15, 1935 a curfew is declared in the cities of [[Berat]], [[Lushnjë|Lushnja]], [[Skrapar]] and [[Vlorë]].<ref name=":0" />

=== Death sentences === The government created a special political court to punish the insurgents.<ref name=":0" />

Llazar Bozo was sentenced to death, in absentia, by the special political court.<ref name=":0" />

Thanks to the reaction of public opinion, the death sentence of Llazar Bozo and 41 others is commuted to prison sentences.<ref name=":0" />

Llazar Bozo temporarily takes refuge in [[Rome]], [[Italy]], and was never arrested.<ref name=":0" />

== World War II ==

=== National Conference of Pezë 1942 === On September 16, 1942, Llazar Bozo participated as a delegate representing [[Lushnjë|Lushnja]] in the [[National Liberation Movement (Albania)|National Conference of Peza]].<ref name=":0" /><ref name=":17" /><ref name=":18" />

Llazar Bozo was a member of the leadership of the Antifascist National Liberation Council of the [[Berat]] District.<ref name=":0" />

In the proceedings of the [[Peza Conference]], Llazar Bozo was elected a member of the General National Liberation Council (Albanian: “''Këshillit të Pergjithshëm Nacional Clirimtar”'') of the [[National Liberation Movement (Albania)]].<ref name=":0" />

=== Creation of the first Partisan group of Myzeqe === On December 26, 1942 was founded, in the Robo house in [[Kolonjë, Fier|Kolonjë]], the first partisan group of [[Myzeqe]] having the first 21 partisan fighters.<ref name=":15" /><ref name=":21" /><ref name=":22" />

On April 20, 1943, all the partisans of [[Myzeqe]] gathered in the Sene forest near the village of Këmishtaj, where they formed the First Partisan Battalion. Rahman Uruçi was elected commander of the battalion, with commissar Muharrem Shabani, deputy commander [[Irakli Bozo|Irakli Llazar Bozo]] and deputy commissar Loni Dhamo. [[Spiro Moisiu]] was also appointed military advisor and played an important role in the military organisation of the battalion.<ref name=":22" />

The leaders of the [[National Liberation Movement (Albania)|Anti-Fascist National Liberation Movement]] of [[Myzeqe]] made every effort to reach an agreement with the leaders of the [[Balli Kombëtar|National Front]] for a joint fight against fascism and to avoid divisive actions for a fratricidal war. Several meetings were held, such as the one in the village of Lumth at the house of Tonç Velo, where [[Spiro Moisiu]] and Llazar Bozo represented the [[Balli Kombëtar|National Front]], while [[Xhaferr Bali]] and [[Hamit Matjani]] represented the [[Balli Kombëtar|National Front]].<ref name=":15" /><ref name=":21" />

[[Myzeqe]] region supported mainly the [[National Liberation Movement (Albania)|National Liberation War]], in which 3,450 [[Partisan (military)|partisans]] from [[Myzeqe]] region only, were engaged and 197 martyrs fall on the battlefield against the [[World War II in Albania|nazi-fascist occupation]] of [[Albania]] during [[World War II]].<ref name=":22" />

=== National Conference of Labinot 1943 === Llazar Bozo was one of the 50 delegates at the Labinot Conference held on September 4–9, 1943 in [[Labinot-Mal]], [[Elbasan]].<ref name=":0" />

=== Winter Operation 1943-1944 === On August 2, 1943, in Karkanjoz, Berat, Llazar Bozo was elected member of Partisan Forces Headquarters for the [[Berat]] region (Albanian: ''Shtabi Forcave Partizane për qarkun e Beratit'').[1]

Llazar Bozo participated in the [[LANÇ counter-offensive in Albania (1944)]].

Llazar Bozo participated in the battles in Sulovë, [[Tomorrica (river)|Tomorricë]], [[Skrapar]], and in Gorë-Opar, [[Korçë|Korça]].[22]

=== National Congress of Përmet 1944 === Llazar attended as a member, the meeting of the Presidency of the Antifascist National Liberation Council (Albanian: ''Kryesisa e Këshillit Antifashist Nacionalclirimtar'') in Helmës, Skrapar on 15 April 1944.<ref name=":0" />

Llazar Bozo participatd as a delegate of the [[Berat]] district in the [[Congress of Përmet]], which held its proceedings on May 24, 1944.<ref name=":0" />

Llazar Bozo was elected member of the General Anti-Fascist National Liberation Council (Albanian: ''Këshilli i Përgjithshëm Antifashist Nacionalclirimtar''), with a mandate of May 24, 1944 – December 16, 1945.<ref name=":0" /><ref name=":15" /><ref name=":16" />

=== Aftermath === The [[National Liberation Movement (Albania)|Antifascist National Liberation Army]] of [[Albanians|Albanian]] [[Partisan (military)|partisans]] entirely liberated [[Albania]] from the nazi-fascist occupation on November 29, 1944, putting [[Albania]] on the side of the winners of World War II.

== Benefactor ==

=== Administrator of Ardenica Monatery === [[File:Llazar Bozo Ardenica Monastery 1914.jpg|thumb|240x240px|Wall inscription about the constructions done by the administrator Llazar Bozo in the Ardenica Monastery in 1914.]]Llazar Bozo, like his father Mihal, was administrator, caretaker and protector of the [[Ardenica Monastery]].

Llazar Bozo financed, maintained, rebuilt and built some of the objects of the monastery, as is also witnessed on the various tablets with carved mural inscriptions of ''December 15, 1914'', ''1922'', ''1925'', ''May 29, 1925'', etc.

==== Holy Trinity Chapel ==== The Holy Trinity Chapel was built ceinturies before the [[Ardenica Monastery]] that was established in 1282.<ref name=":24" />

In 1914 and 1922, the Holy Trinity Chapel (Albanian: ''Kisha e Shën Triadhës'') and the four northern chambers were financed and fundamentally rebuilt by the administrator ([[Albanian language|Albanian]]: ''kujdestar, epitrop'') of the [[Ardenica Monastery]], Mr. Llazar M. Bozo.<ref name=":23" /><ref name=":24" />

[[File:Lllazar Bozo Ardenica Monastery 1922.jpg|thumb|240x240px|Wall inscription about the constructions done by the administrator Llazar Bozo in the Ardenica Monastery in 1922.]] [[File:Église de la Nativité de la Mère de Dieu 1743 (53100021886).jpg|thumb|Church of Saint Mary and the Bell tower in the Ardenica Monastery|570x570px|center]]

==== Bell Tower ==== In 1925, the 4x4 and 30m high, Bell Tower was financed and built by the administrator of the Monastery, Mr. Llazar Bozo. To climb its five floors, one had to climb 64 wooden steps.<ref name=":23" /><ref name=":24" />

In the bell tower there are two bells purchased in [[Trieste]], Italy by Konstandina Kostaq Xoxa in 1937, Berat and Theodhor A. Xhumurteka in Berat in 1937.<ref name=":23" /><ref name=":24" />

==== Church of Saint Mary ==== In 1925 Llazar Bozo as the administrator of the monastery rebuilt the Church of Saint Mary.<ref name=":24" />[[File:Monastère d’Ardenica (53100428595).jpg|thumb|Ardenica Monastery|320x320px]]

=== Philanthropy === The administrator of the [[Ardenica Monastery]] Llazar Bozo, and the teachers [[Jani Minga]], Naun Prifti in 1922 proposed to the central government the organisation of a boarding school for the youth of [[Myzeqe]], which became functional during the 1920s, the example of which would be followed in other areas of [[Albania]].<ref name=":19" /><ref name=":12" /><ref name=":26" />

In 1922, the Minister of Education [[Rexhep Mitrovica]] allowed the opening of the institution. The teachers who taught at the monastery were: [[Jani Minga]], Anastas Ikonomi, Rrapi Mërtiri and Naun Prifti. Throughout the years of the functioning of this boarding school, Llazar Bozo financed the food as a donation for 50 students regardless of religion, on the condition that the students come from poorer classes of Myzeqe.<ref name=":19" /><ref name=":12" />

This generosity is also appreciated in government and church documents.

== Autocephaly of Orthodox church ==

=== Congress of Berat 1922 === [[File:Albanian Orthodox Autocephaly Congress Berat.jpg|thumb|520x520px|Delegates of the Albanian Orthodox Autocephaly Congress Berat, 1922.]] The [[Congress of Berat]] was held in September 11–13, 1922.<ref name=":24" /><ref name=":25" />

Llazar Bozo and [[Tun Gjergji]] were the delegates representing [[Lushnjë|Lushnje]] in the [[Congress of Berat]] that declared the autocephaly of the [[Albanian Orthodox Church|Orthodox Church of Albania]] in September 1922.<ref name=":24" />

Llazar Bozo was a signatory of the declaration of the autocephaly and of the first statute of the church composed of 14 articles.<ref name=":24" />

=== Congress of Korça 1929 === The Congress of Korça ([[Albanian language|Albanian]]: ''Kongresi i dytë Kleriko-laik në qytetin e Korçës'') was held on June 16–29, 1929 in Korçë, [[Albania]].<ref name=":24" />

Llazar Bozo was participant, signatory and the delegate representing Lushnja region in the Congress of Korça.<ref name=":24" />

Llazar Bozo was member of the Special Commission ([[Albanian language|Albanian]]: ''Komisioni i Posaçëm'') that gave the statute its final form. After 15 days of discussions at 7:30 on June 29, 1929, all delegates signed the documents to be approved as the final statute placing the [[Albanian Orthodox Church|Albanian Autocephalous Orthodox Church]] on a solid foundation.<ref name=":24" />

Subsequently, the second ecclesiastical Congress of Korça reviewed the Regulations of the church.<ref name=":24" />

The [[Autocephaly]] of the [[Albanian Orthodox Church|Orthodox Church of Albania]] was finally recognised in 1937 by the [[Ecumenical Patriarchate of Constantinople]].<ref name=":24" />

== Legacy ==

=== Places named in his honor === [[File:Kapedan Llazar Bozo Monument.jpg|thumb|373x373px]] Llazar Bozo Promenade, (Albanian: ''Shetitorja Llazar Bozo''), [[Kolonjë, Fier]], [[Albania]].

Llazar Bozo street, (Albanian: ''Rruga Llazar Bozo'') [[Fier]], [[Albania]].

Llazar Bozo park and monument, [[Lushnjë]], [[Albania]].

=== Medals and orders === Citizen of Honor (Albanian: ''Qytetar nderi'') of the city of [[Lushnjë|Lushnje]], [[Albania]].<ref name=":12" />

[[Order of the Flag]] (Albanian: ''Urdhëri i Flamurit'')<ref name=":12" />

[[Order and Medal of Bravery|Order of Bravery]] (Albanian: ''Urdhëri i Trimërisë'')<ref name=":12" />

[[Medal of Remembrance]] (Albanian: ''Medalja e Kujtimit'')<ref name=":12" />

=== Books - monographies === The author, writer and journalist [[Hilli Liko]] has written a monography “''Kapedan Llazar Bozo''”<ref name=":0" />

==Notes== {{Notelist}}

==References== {{Reflist}}

[[Category:1882 births]] [[Category:1956 deaths]] [[Category:People from the Ottoman Empire of Aromanian descent]] [[Category:Albanian people of Aromanian descent]] [[Category:19th-century Albanian people]] [[Category:20th-century Albanian people]]