Overthrow of King Otto: What Happened
In October 1862, King Otto, the first king of modern Greece, was overthrown after nearly thirty years on the throne. Discontent had been growing for years. Many Greeks resented Otto's interference in politics and elections, his failure to produce an heir, his Catholic faith, and the humiliation of the Anglo-French occupation of Piraeus during the Crimean War. In early 1862, an army revolt in Nafplio was put down, but unrest continued. In October 1862, while Otto and Amalia were touring the Peloponnese, a revolt broke out in Athens, led by army officers and politicians, and a provisional government declared the king deposed. When the royal couple returned by ship to Piraeus, they were advised not to land. With the support of the British, French and Russian diplomats, who urged them not to resist, Otto and Amalia left Greece aboard a British warship and went into exile in Bavaria. Otto never gave up his love for Greece and was said to wear Greek dress in exile. He died in Bamberg in 1867.
Frequently Asked Questions
When was King Otto overthrown?
King Otto was overthrown in October 1862, when a revolt in Athens declared him deposed while he and Queen Amalia were touring the Peloponnese.
Why was King Otto overthrown?
Greeks resented his interference in politics, his lack of an heir, his Catholic faith and the humiliating Anglo-French occupation of Piraeus during the Crimean War.
Where did King Otto go after he was overthrown?
Otto and Queen Amalia left Greece on a British warship and went into exile in Bavaria. Otto died in Bamberg in 1867.
Did King Otto resist being overthrown?
No. The British, French and Russian diplomats advised him not to resist, and he left Greece peacefully without landing at Piraeus.
Who was Queen Amalia?
Queen Amalia was Otto's wife, from the German duchy of Oldenburg. She created the National Garden in Athens, originally the palace garden, which is still enjoyed today.
