Greek War of Independence: The Revolution of 1821
In 1821, Greeks rose against Ottoman rule in a long and bloody struggle for freedom. Explore the battles, heroes and turning points that created the modern Greek state.
Key Events of the Greek War of Independence
The Story of the Greek War of Independence
The Greek War of Independence was the uprising that created the modern Greek state. It began in early 1821, with a revolt led by Alexandros Ypsilantis in the Danubian principalities and an uprising in the Peloponnese, and 25 March is celebrated as Greek Independence Day. Greek fighters such as Theodoros Kolokotronis won early victories, capturing Tripolitsa and destroying an Ottoman army at Dervenakia, while island sailors fought at sea with fire ships. The war was brutal on both sides, with massacres such as those at Chios and Psara shocking Europe. Internal divisions led to civil war among the Greeks, and the arrival of Ibrahim Pasha's Egyptian army in 1825 nearly crushed the revolution, as Missolonghi fell after a heroic resistance. The cause won wide support abroad, symbolized by Lord Byron. In 1827, Britain, France and Russia destroyed the Ottoman-Egyptian fleet at Navarino. Greece was recognized as independent in 1830, and its borders were set in 1832.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did the Greek War of Independence start?
The war began in early 1821, with a revolt in the Danubian principalities in February and uprisings in the Peloponnese in March. Greek Independence Day is 25 March.
Who were the heroes of the Greek Revolution?
Famous figures include Theodoros Kolokotronis, Georgios Karaiskakis, Laskarina Bouboulina, Andreas Miaoulis, Konstantinos Kanaris, Athanasios Diakos and Markos Botsaris.
Why did European powers help Greece?
Massacres such as Chios, the heroic fall of Missolonghi, the philhellene movement and strategic interests led Britain, France and Russia to intervene in 1827.
When did Greece become independent?
Greece was recognized as a fully independent state by the London Protocol of 3 February 1830, and its borders were confirmed by the Treaty of Constantinople in 1832.
What was the turning point of the Greek War of Independence?
The Battle of Navarino on 20 October 1827, when the British, French and Russian fleets destroyed the Ottoman-Egyptian navy, made Greek independence almost certain.
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