On April 9, 1961, Zog I of Albania passed away at the age of 65. Zog I was born Ahmed Zogu in 1895. In 1918, he rose to power and swiftly established a monarchy, becoming the King of Albania in 1928. During his rule, Zog I reformed much of Albania’s social, economic and political policies. His reign focused on modernizing the country and strengthening its international standing, while also bringing civil and religious liberties to all of Albania’s citizens. He was married three times and fathered seven children. In 1939, Albania fell to Italy’s fascist forces, and Zog I fled into exile in Britain, later moving to Turkey, Egypt and finally France, where he would permanently reside until his death. Although he returned to Albania for brief visits, Zog I was never able to reclaim his throne. He died in France in 1961, survived by his three wives, seven children and a legacy of progress in his homeland.