Dekemvriana: What Happened
From December 1944 to January 1945, fighting broke out in Athens between the left-wing resistance forces of EAM and ELAS on one side, and the Greek government and British forces on the other, in events known as the Dekemvriana, or December Events. After liberation, tensions grew over the disarmament of the resistance groups and the future of Greece. On 3 December 1944, a large EAM demonstration in Syntagma Square was fired upon by police, killing and wounding many protesters. Who fired first, and on whose orders, is still disputed. ELAS forces then attacked police stations and government positions across Athens, and the fighting quickly escalated. British troops, under orders from Prime Minister Winston Churchill, intervened on the side of the government, with reinforcements, tanks and aircraft. The fighting lasted more than a month, causing thousands of deaths, with atrocities committed by both sides, including the taking of hostages by ELAS. By January 1945, ELAS forces had been driven out of Athens, and a truce was signed. The Dekemvriana deepened divisions and was a prelude to civil war.
Frequently Asked Questions
What were the Dekemvriana?
The Dekemvriana, or December Events, were armed clashes in Athens from December 1944 to January 1945 between EAM and ELAS and the Greek government and British forces.
What started the Dekemvriana?
On 3 December 1944, police fired on a large EAM demonstration in Syntagma Square. Who fired first and on whose orders is still disputed.
Why did Britain fight in Athens?
Under orders from Winston Churchill, British troops intervened on the government's side to prevent EAM and ELAS from taking control of Athens.
How many people died in the Dekemvriana?
The fighting lasted more than a month and caused thousands of deaths, with atrocities committed by both sides.
How did the Dekemvriana end?
By January 1945, ELAS forces had been driven out of Athens, and a truce was signed, followed by the Varkiza Agreement in February 1945.
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