Death of King Alexander: What Happened
On 25 October 1920, King Alexander of Greece died from an infection after being bitten by a monkey. Alexander, the second son of King Constantine I, had become king in 1917, when the Allies forced his father to leave Greece. On 2 October 1920, while walking in the gardens of the royal estate at Tatoi, north of Athens, he tried to separate his dog from a pet monkey belonging to a palace official. Another monkey attacked him, biting him on the leg. The wounds became infected, and he developed blood poisoning. Despite the efforts of his doctors, he died about three weeks later at the age of 27. His death had huge political consequences. It came just before elections, turning them into a contest over whether his exiled father should return. Venizelos's Liberal Party lost, and a referendum brought Constantine back to the throne. The Allies, who distrusted Constantine, withdrew their support for Greece in Asia Minor. Winston Churchill later wrote that a quarter of a million people died of this monkey's bite.
Frequently Asked Questions
How did King Alexander of Greece die?
King Alexander died on 25 October 1920 from blood poisoning after being bitten by a monkey in the gardens of the royal estate at Tatoi, north of Athens.
Who was King Alexander?
Alexander was the second son of King Constantine I. He became king in 1917 when the Allies forced his father to leave Greece.
How did Alexander's death change Greek history?
His death turned the 1920 elections into a vote on his father's return. Venizelos lost, Constantine returned, and the Allies withdrew support in Asia Minor.
What did Churchill say about the monkey bite?
Winston Churchill later wrote that a quarter of a million people died of this monkey's bite, referring to the consequences of the king's death.
How old was King Alexander when he died?
King Alexander was only 27 years old when he died, about three weeks after being bitten.
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