Mehmet Deralla, synonym of the Albanian patriotic consciousness

Abstract

In the 100 plus years since the founding of the Modern Albanian state we have been witness to many extraordinary events; both great and small. History has watched myopic predatory Balkan states attempt to carve up the Albanian territories for their own aggrandizement. History has seen how generations of ordinary Albanian patriots, men and women, struggled in the cause of freedom. And posterity watched when American presidents, time and again, have interceded on behave of the Albanian people not for their own aggrandizement, but out of friendship.
We gather here today to talk about these events. We have written our papers and prepared fine speeches. Our words carry great responsibility that it is important to remember and discuss the events which have brought us together here for this occasion. In my own humble way I want to pay tribute to the Albanian folk who have sacrificed so much these past 100 years.
Your fathers and mothers, your grand fathers and great grand parents gave willingly so that we can meet here in Tetove; openly without fear of arrest. Tetove, is a proud city that is home to two Albanian universities. Let us remember that only a few short years ago it was illegal to study in the Albanian language. So let us applaud and recognize those patriots who came before us and show pride in what they have accomplished. The fruit from the old tree is indeed sweet.
In particular I would like to speak about one family whose roots run deep into the Albanian consciousness. Mehmet Pash Deralla,