Outbreak of the Greek Revolution
Era: Greek War of Independence
Period: Modern Greece
Type: Political Turning Points
Year: 1821
Date: 25 March 1821 (traditional)
Location: Peloponnese
Key Figures: Theodoros Kolokotronis, Petros Mavromichalis, Germanos of Patras
Outcome:
Key Facts
Start of the Greek War of Independence
Outbreak of the Greek Revolution: What Happened
In March 1821, the Greek War of Independence broke out in the Peloponnese. Greek fighters rose up in several places across the region, attacking Ottoman officials and garrisons. On 17 March, the Maniots declared war at Areopoli, and on 23 March, Greek forces led by Petros Mavromichalis, Theodoros Kolokotronis and Papaflessas took the town of Kalamata. Uprisings quickly spread across the Peloponnese, central Greece and the islands. The revolution had been planned by the secret society Filiki Eteria, and its leaders drew on generations of resistance by klephts, local warriors, and on the wealth of Greek merchants and shipowners. According to tradition, the revolution was proclaimed on 25 March 1821 by Bishop Germanos of Patras at the Monastery of Agia Lavra. This date also marks the Orthodox feast of the Annunciation, and it is celebrated every year as Greek Independence Day. The war lasted for more than a decade, cost many lives and eventually led to the creation of an independent Greek state, the first to break away from the Ottoman Empire.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did the Greek Revolution start?
The Greek Revolution broke out in the Peloponnese in March 1821. The Maniots declared war at Areopoli on 17 March, and Kalamata was taken on 23 March.
Why is 25 March Greek Independence Day?
By tradition, the revolution was proclaimed on 25 March 1821 at the Monastery of Agia Lavra. The date is also the Orthodox feast of the Annunciation.
Who led the Greek Revolution?
Leaders included Theodoros Kolokotronis, Petros Mavromichalis, Papaflessas and Bishop Germanos of Patras, along with naval leaders from the islands of Hydra, Spetses and Psara.
What was the motto of the Greek Revolution?
The revolutionary motto was Eleftheria i Thanatos, meaning Freedom or Death, which remains a powerful symbol in Greece today.
How long did the Greek War of Independence last?
The war lasted from 1821 until Greek independence was recognized in 1830 and its borders were confirmed in 1832, more than a decade of fighting.
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