Abstract

Hysen (Mehi) Hajdaraj (1909–2001) lived through some of the most violent and turbulent periods in Albanian history. Born into hardship, he assumed responsibility for his family at a young age after the massacre of his tribe in Drelaj in 1926. A freedom fighter during World War II, he resisted occupation alongside the Rugova highlanders and survived major military pursuits. Imprisoned after the war for his wartime actions, he endured profound personal losses without breaking. In his later years, he dedicated his life to blood reconciliation, remaining steadfast to the values of honor, resistance, and dignity until his death.

Hysen (Mehi) Hajdaraj (1909–2001) was born in a very difficult time for his family and the Albanian people.

In 1926, almost all the males of his tribe were killed by Serbian-Montenegrin enemies in Drelaj. Hysen, although still young, fell under the entire burden of the family.

During World War II, he participated side by side with the Rugovas who loved freedom more than life. After being surrounded in Montenegrin territory, together with some Rugovas and the captain Bibë Mirakaj from Albania, they bravely managed to break the siege.

After many efforts, they returned safely to Rugova. After the war, the notorious commander Radic Bogolubi tracked down Hysen for the murders of Serbian Chetniks during the war.

He was arrested, and although he had not been alone in the war, he took full responsibility. He was sent to Shpuzi prison, where he served his sentence for many years. During his sentence, his father, his only son, and his wife died, but he never broke.

After leaving prison, he devoted himself to blood reconciliation until his death. During his life, he experienced three wars, but he never surrendered. He was born and died as a highlander, a true Rugova man.