The Fedayis of Van, 1915

This archival photograph was taken in 1915 in Van. It shows Armenian fedayis, armed and resolute, at a time when the people’s survival depended on self-defence.

Four men stand with rifles, cartridge belts across their chests and at their waists. Two wear wrapped headcloths, one wears a tall fur hat, and one holds binoculars.

The fedayi units of Van were formed to defend the communities and to save women, children and the elderly. The photograph is a reminder that in the dark days of 1915 Armenians also stood up as an organised force.