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What is the history behind Greek Independence Day?

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mj_toronto8

mj_toronto8

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Hi guys! What is the significance of Greek Independence Day (March 25)?
 
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Independence day celebrates the separation of Greece from the Ottoman empire. Greece was struggling for over 400 years to gain independence, and finally in 1821 they became an independent state.
 
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voula_slat said:
Independence day celebrates the separation of Greece from the Ottoman empire. Greece was struggling for over 400 years to gain independence, and finally in 1821 they became an independent state.
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It states the start of the revolution against the dominance of Ottoman empire. This is not the exact date that started, they chosed this date to coincide with the great chistianic holiday of Eyaggelismoy tis Theotokou. It is not an intependence Day, it is the 'revolution start'
mj_toronto8 said:
Hi guys! What is the significance of Greek Independence Day (March 25)?
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Greek Independence Day is coming up! I thought I would share a bit that I know about the history. Please chime in with corrections or anything to add!
  1. The Spark of Revolution: Greek Independence Day marks the day in 1821 when the Greeks began their revolt against the Ottoman Empire, a state that had controlled Greece for nearly 400 years. This revolt was influenced by the surge of nationalism throughout Europe and inspired by the Enlightenment ideals of liberty, equality, and fraternity.
  2. A Poet’s Declaration: The revolution officially began after Bishop Germanos of Patras raised the Greek flag at the Monastery of Agia Lavra in Peloponnese, symbolizing the call to arms. However, it was rumored that the war of independence was actually declared a few days earlier by Alexandros Ypsilantis, a Greek national hero, in the Danubian Principalities.
  3. International Support: The Greek fight for independence was not just a local effort; it garnered substantial international support from prominent figures such as Lord Byron from Britain, who notably spent his own money and later died in Greece, contributing to the Greek cause. This international backing was crucial for the morale of the Greek fighters and helped in diplomatic efforts later on.
  4. The Battle of Navarino: A pivotal point in the Greek War of Independence was the Battle of Navarino in 1827, where the combined fleets of Britain, France, and Russia defeated the Ottoman and Egyptian fleets. This naval battle marked a significant turning point that led to the eventual independence of Greece.
  5. Recognition and Autonomy: Greek Independence was formally recognized in 1830 by the Treaty of London. However, full sovereignty and the delineation of the Greek borders were not achieved until later. It allowed the foundation of the modern Greek state, under the governance of King Otto from Bavaria.
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