First National Assembly at Epidaurus: What Happened
From December 1821 to January 1822, representatives of the areas that had risen in revolt met at Piada, a village near ancient Epidaurus in the Peloponnese, for the First National Assembly of the Greek revolution. About 60 delegates attended, representing the Peloponnese, central Greece and the islands. They included military leaders, local notables, clergy and educated Greeks from abroad. The assembly aimed to create a single national government that could lead the war, gain foreign recognition and unite the different regional councils that had sprung up during the revolution. Alexandros Mavrokordatos, a well-educated Phanariote Greek, was elected president of the assembly and then of the new executive. On 1 January 1822, the assembly approved the Provisional Constitution of Greece, and on 15 January it issued a proclamation declaring the independence of the Greek nation. The assembly created a government with an executive and a legislative body. It was an important step in turning a series of local uprisings into a national revolution with a political structure and a claim to statehood.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the First National Assembly at Epidaurus?
It was the first national assembly of the Greek revolution, held from December 1821 to January 1822 at Piada, near ancient Epidaurus, to create a national government.
Who attended the First National Assembly?
About 60 delegates attended, representing the Peloponnese, central Greece and the islands, including military leaders, local notables, clergy and educated Greeks from abroad.
Who led the First National Assembly?
Alexandros Mavrokordatos, a well-educated Phanariote Greek, was elected president of the assembly and then head of the new executive.
What did the First National Assembly achieve?
It approved the Provisional Constitution of Greece on 1 January 1822 and issued a proclamation of Greek independence on 15 January.
Where is Piada?
Piada is the village now called Nea Epidavros, in the Argolid, near the ancient site of Epidaurus and its famous theatre.
