Creation of the Cretan State: What Happened
In 1898, Crete became an autonomous state under the nominal rule of the Ottoman sultan but under the protection of the great powers. After decades of revolts by Cretan Christians seeking union with Greece, a new uprising broke out in 1897, and Greece sent troops to support it, leading to the Greco-Turkish War. The great powers, Britain, France, Russia and Italy, sent troops to Crete and divided the island into zones of occupation. In September 1898, violence in Heraklion, including the killing of British soldiers and the British vice-consul, led the powers to force the Ottoman troops to leave the island. In December 1898, Prince George of Greece, son of King George I, arrived as High Commissioner. The Cretan State had its own government, parliament, flag, currency and police. However, it did not satisfy the Cretans' desire for union with Greece, and tensions grew between Prince George and the young Cretan politician Eleftherios Venizelos. In 1905, Venizelos led the Theriso revolt against Prince George, who resigned in 1906. Crete formally joined Greece in 1913.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the Cretan State?
The Cretan State was an autonomous Crete, under nominal Ottoman sovereignty but protected by the Great Powers, created in 1898.
Who ruled the Cretan State?
Prince George of Greece, son of King George I, became High Commissioner of Crete in December 1898.
Did the Cretan State have its own flag?
Yes. The Cretan State had its own government, parliament, flag, currency and police, though it remained officially under Ottoman sovereignty.
What was the Theriso revolt?
In 1905, Eleftherios Venizelos led a revolt at Theriso, near Chania, against Prince George's rule, pushing for union with Greece. Prince George resigned in 1906.
When did the Cretan State end?
The Cretan State ended when Crete was officially united with Greece in 1913, after the Balkan Wars.
