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acamp7

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The junta was a strong military dictatorship in the late 60's and early 70's in Greece. This was a very dark period for many Greeks, especially those who were socialist, communist, or anything leaning towards the left. The government also targeted anyone who was against the brutal dictatorship, even if they were not politically left leaning. These people would be hunted down by the military and locked up in jail or beaten or even killed. After the junta was dissolved, a democracy was established in Greece.
 
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I first went to Greece in July, 1974, mere days after the junta was overthrown. Only three of us exited the international flight in Athens; everyone else had departed in Rome. I will never forget the jubilance that permeated the air. People flocked to the outdoor cafes and exclaimed that they were finally able to speak freely. I will also never forget the Greek tradition of φιλότιμο (hard to define: incredible hospitality, the honor of treating someone as you would wish to be treated) that was extended to me then and also, to this very day. How easy it is to forget the lessons of history, but thank God for traditions like «φιλότιμο» that manage to survive no matter who’s in power or what’s going on in the world!
 
I first went to Greece in July, 1974, mere days after the junta was overthrown. Only three of us exited the international flight in Athens; everyone else had departed in Rome. I will never forget the jubilance that permeated the air. People flocked to the outdoor cafes and exclaimed that they were finally able to speak freely. I will also never forget the Greek tradition of φιλότιμο (hard to define: incredible hospitality, the honor of treating someone as you would wish to be treated) that was extended to me then and also, to this very day. How easy it is to forget the lessons of history, but thank God for traditions like «φιλότιμο» that manage to survive no matter who’s in power or what’s going on in the world!
Very eerie. We have much to learn from out history. I'm glad you got to experience the joy from Greek directly after
 
I first went to Greece in July, 1974, mere days after the junta was overthrown. Only three of us exited the international flight in Athens; everyone else had departed in Rome. I will never forget the jubilance that permeated the air. People flocked to the outdoor cafes and exclaimed that they were finally able to speak freely. I will also never forget the Greek tradition of φιλότιμο (hard to define: incredible hospitality, the honor of treating someone as you would wish to be treated) that was extended to me then and also, to this very day. How easy it is to forget the lessons of history, but thank God for traditions like «φιλότιμο» that manage to survive no matter who’s in power or what’s going on in the world!
Fascinating that you were a witness to history like this. The Junta sounds like a brutal situation.
 

Studying the Trojan War - Was it Real?

Did the Trojan War really happen? I am doing a bit of research and wanted to know what you guys thought:

The war is believed to have happened around 1200 BCE, and while there is no concrete evidence to support its occurrence, it is widely accepted as factual.

What is confusing me is how prevalent it is in Greek Mythology. In addition to the gods' involvement in the conflict, various stories and legends were added over time to give the tale more depth and drama. For example, the character of Achilles was said to be invulnerable except for his heel, which led to the phrase "Achilles heel" being used to describe a person's one weakness.

While some scholars once dismissed the Trojan War as pure myth, modern archaeological evidence has suggested that it may have been a real event. Excavations at the ancient site of Troy have revealed evidence of a long period of conflict and destruction, and historians have found similarities between the tale as it is told in ancient texts and what is known about the region's history at the time. While many details of the Trojan War are still shrouded in mystery, it seems increasingly likely that it was not just a legend but a real event that has been passed down through the ages.

Information About Alexander the Great

I have always been fascinated by Alexander the Great. I have this sense that depending on how you look at what he did, you could see it differently.

Sure, he conquered and spread hellenism. But what about the place he conquered? How did they feel? I am guessing not very favorable towards him.

If found this documentary on YouTube created by the history channel. I thought I'd watch it. I found it interesting and wanted to share.

Earliest Civilizations of Greece

When I visit Greece, I love to learn about the history. I want to Greece for a bit this past summer and loved learning about the Minoans. Were they the earliest or was there a civilization before them?

Prior to this trip, I had thought the Minoans were contained to Crete, but I went to Santorini and Aegina, as well, and they also talked about the Minoan influence. Fascinating stuff. I want to learn about the Mycenaeans, too. Were they kind of at the same time as the Minoans?

Interesting Greek History Topics I Like

The Persian Wars: The wars fought between Greece and the Persian empire in the 5th century BC were some of the most consequential conflicts of ancient times. Learn about the key events, such as the Battle of Marathon and the Battle of Thermopylae, and the strategies that allowed the Greeks to repel the Persian invaders.

The Rise of Athens: Arguably the most influential city-state in ancient Greece, Athens was the birthplace of democracy, philosophy, and the arts. Follow the rise of Athens from a humble village to a powerhouse of trade and culture.

The Peloponnesian War: The decades-long conflict between Athens and Sparta was a turning point in Greek history, leading to the decline of Athens and the rise of Macedon under Philip II and his son Alexander.

The Life of Alexander the Great: The young conqueror who led his armies across the known world, Alexander the Great is one of the most famous and admired figures of ancient history. Learn about his upbringing, his conquests, and his legacy.

The Olympic Games: A tradition that continues to this day, the ancient Olympics were a celebration of sports, culture, and political power. Explore the origins of the games and the events that took place.

Learning about the Spartan way of life

I find the Spartans fascinating. They seemed to have a different way of life!

The Spartans, known for their military might, also led a lifestyle that was remarkably disciplined and focused on simplicity.

The core of Spartan society was its military-oriented ethos. From a young age, Spartan boys were trained to be soldiers in the agoge, a rigorous education system that emphasized physical training, endurance, and survival skills. This preparation was not just about warfare but about creating individuals who were resilient, self-sufficient, and disciplined.

But Spartan discipline extended beyond the military sphere. Spartans lived a life of austerity and frugality that is quite alien to our modern way of living. Meals were simple, homes were unadorned, and luxuries were frowned upon. This was not out of a lack of resources but a deliberate choice to avoid softness and dependency on material comforts.

Interestingly, this Spartan simplicity also fostered a sense of equality among citizens. By eschewing luxury, Spartans aimed to reduce divisions within their society. Wealth and status were downplayed, while military prowess and moral integrity were valued above all.

What do you guys think about this or what can you add to my thinking?
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