A NATIONAL HOLIDAY IN CYPRUS
SEVERAL PARADES
March 25th is a public holiday in Cyprus and Greece and it is celebrated throughout Greek diaspora centres. The holiday acknowledges the Greek War of Independenceareof of 1821, which iberated Greece from four centuries of Ottoman occupation. Celebrations normally take place throughout Cypriot schools on the eve of the main celebration that includes a large military parade.
SPECIAL CHURCH SERVICES
The military parade usually consists of several military divisions and students along with various clubs also partake in the parade. Special church services commemorating the event are also held throughout the island.
THE GREEK REVOLUTION OF 1821
The Greek Revolution of 1821, also known as the Greek War of Independence, was a pivotal event in the history of all Greek people. It led to freedom from the Ottoman Turks and it had significant implications for the broader region of the Balkans and Europe.
OTTOMAN RULE
Greece had been under Ottoman control since the mid-15th century. During this time, Greeks were subjected to high taxes and cultural oppression, although some regions experienced relative autonomy.
RISING NATIONALISM
The late 18th and early 19th centuries saw a rise in nationalist sentiments throughout Europe. This was influenced by the ‘Enlightenment’ and the successful revolutions in America and France. Greek intellectuals, inspired by these movements, began to advocate for independence.
INITIAL UPRISINGS
The revolution’s early spark can be traced back to several smaller uprisings and revolts leading up to 1821. The most notable was the Orlov Revolt of 1770. Later movements in 1814 included the founding of the ‘Filiki Etaireia,’ which translates to the Friendly Society. This group aimed to coordinate efforts for independence at any cost and they were the main driving force leading up the revolution.
A CALL TO ARMS
The revolution was officially declared by Bishop Germanos of Patras on March 25th, 1821. His call to arms was specifically chosen to coincide with the Feast of the Annunciation and it led to several clashes beginning in the Peloponnese. These clashes then led to serious armed conflict that quickly spread to other regions throughout Greece. The first National Assembly was convened, leading to the establishment of a provisional government in 1822. The lack of unity among Greek factions, however, complicated the revolutionary efforts. The struggle for independence continued and was hard won after several significant battles were fought and won over the next few years.
INTERNATIONAL SUPPORT
The plight of the Greeks drew sympathy and support from several other Western European nations. Figures like Lord Byron, who provided both financial support and fought alongside Greek revolutionaries were fundemental to their success. Britain, France and Russia openly pledged support to the Greeks.
THE BATTLE OF THERMOPYLAE
The Battle of Thermopylae in 1822 was the first major battle won by the Greeks. This victory galvanised the Greek resistance and was used a platform to launch further attacks on the Ottomans. The significance of Thermopylae was also used to great effect as it was also the stage for the last stand of the 300 Spartans who fought the entreity of the Persian Army in 480 BC.
THE BATTLE OF NAVARINO
The Battle of Navarino in 1827 was a pivotal naval battle in the Greek war of independence. Greece was supported by the combined fleets from Britain, France, and Russia, and went on to defeat the Ottoman fleet. This battle significantly tipped the scales in favor of the Greeks.
THE ESTABLISHMENT OF THE MODERN GREEK STATE
The great powers of the time intervened diplomatically following 6 years of conflict. This directly led to the Treaty of London in 1827, which sought to establish a settlement in favor of Greek independence. The treaty enabled the establishment of the modern Greek state. Three years later, the Treaty of London officially recognised Greece as an independent state, although the borders were limited initially. Further territorial gains were made through subsequent treaties.
THE ESTABLISHMENT OF THE MODERN GREEK STATE
The Kingdom of Greece was established in 1832 when King Otto of Bavaria was officially recognised as the King of Greece. His monarchy faced numerous challenges, including economic struggles and internal divisions. The monarchy proved pivotal to the resurgence of Greek culture and identity and this led to a flourish of arts and sciences that reflected a renewed national Greek pride.
RESHAPING THE LANDSCAPE
The Greek War of Independence set a precedent for other nationalist movements, especially in the Balkans. The Ottoman defeat at the hands of the Greeks contributed to the decline of the Ottoman Empire and helped to reshape the political landscape of the region.
