Remembering Metaxas as Oxi Day Approaches

[nadellii]

From what I understand, Metaxas was a somewhat controversial figure in Greece. However, he is the one who stood his ground against the Axis Powers when they wanted Greece to allow occupation during World War II without a fight.

I guess at the time, a representative from Italy gave Metaxas an ultimatum from Mussolini. I heard somewhere that what he really said was: “Alors, c’est la guerre.” Which means, then it is war. The Greek people translated it as "Oxi".

In my mind, this is Philotimo. Standing against Italy and the Axis Powers was the right thing to do.

Does anyone know why Metaxas is generally considered controversial? Does it have to do with Oxi day or something else?

 

[k_tsoukalas]

I think that he was controversial because of his politics. I think it tracked to the 4th of August Regime and the fact that he was appointed by the king. He wanted to remain neutral during WWII but as the events unfolded, he knew that the right thing to do was to stand up against the Axis Powers.