Noemvriana: What Happened
In December 1916, violent clashes broke out in Athens between royalist Greek forces and Allied troops, an episode known as the Noemvriana, or November Events, because it happened in November under the old calendar Greece used at the time. The Allies, Britain and France, wanted King Constantine's neutral government to hand over military equipment as compensation for Greek war material captured by the Bulgarians. On 1 December 1916, French and British troops landed at Piraeus and marched into Athens to enforce the demand. They were met by royalist troops and armed reservists, and fighting broke out. After several hours of clashes, with dozens killed on both sides, the Allied troops withdrew, and the French fleet fired shells into Athens, including near the royal palace. In the days that followed, royalist forces and mobs attacked supporters of Venizelos in Athens, killing, beating and arresting many. The Allies responded with a naval blockade of royalist southern Greece, which caused severe hardship. The Noemvriana deepened the bitterness of the National Schism and led to Constantine's departure in June 1917.
Frequently Asked Questions
What were the Noemvriana?
The Noemvriana, or November Events, were clashes in Athens in December 1916 between royalist forces and Allied troops, followed by attacks on Venizelos supporters.
Why is it called Noemvriana if it happened in December?
Greece still used the old Julian calendar in 1916, so the events took place in November under that calendar, though in December by today's calendar.
Why did Allied troops land in Athens?
Britain and France wanted King Constantine's government to hand over military equipment. When French and British troops marched in to enforce the demand, fighting broke out.
What happened to Venizelos supporters?
In the days after the clashes, royalist forces and mobs attacked supporters of Venizelos in Athens, killing, beating and arresting many.
How did the Allies respond to the Noemvriana?
The Allies imposed a naval blockade on royalist southern Greece, causing severe hardship, and pressured King Constantine to leave in June 1917.
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