Greek Government in Exile: What Happened
From 1941 to 1944, the legitimate Greek government continued to operate in exile, based mainly in Cairo and London, after Greece was occupied by the Axis. In April 1941, as German forces advanced, King George II and the government, led by Prime Minister Emmanouil Tsouderos, left Athens for Crete, and after the fall of Crete in May 1941, they moved to Egypt and then London. The government in exile continued the war alongside the Allies. It organized Greek armed forces in the Middle East, including army units that fought in North Africa, notably at the Battle of El Alamein in 1942, and a Greek navy and air force that operated in the Mediterranean. The Greek merchant fleet also played an important role in Allied shipping. It also faced serious challenges. Many Greeks resented the king for supporting the Metaxas dictatorship, and there were mutinies in the Greek forces in Egypt in 1943 and 1944. Its relations with the resistance at home, especially the left-wing EAM, were tense. The government returned to Athens in October 1944, led by Georgios Papandreou.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where was the Greek government during World War II?
The Greek government in exile operated mainly from Cairo and London between 1941 and 1944, after Greece was occupied.
Who led the Greek government in exile?
King George II and Prime Minister Emmanouil Tsouderos led the government in exile, later followed by Georgios Papandreou.
Did Greek forces keep fighting after 1941?
Yes. Greek army units fought in North Africa, including at El Alamein in 1942, and the Greek navy and air force operated in the Mediterranean.
Why were there mutinies in the Greek forces in Egypt?
Many soldiers resented the king for supporting the Metaxas dictatorship, and there were political divisions linked to the resistance at home, leading to mutinies in 1943 and 1944.
When did the government return to Greece?
The government returned to Athens in October 1944, led by Prime Minister Georgios Papandreou, as a government of national unity.
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