Nikos Anastasopoulos, Professor of Modern Greek History at the University of Ioannina and author, among other works, of the historical book “From the Massacre of Chios to the Exodus of Messolonghi: Military Failures and Their Consequences” (Metaichmio Publications), discusses on the program “Remarkable Personalities”, with Stavroula Karali, the great battles as well as the bitter defeats that marked the difficult struggle of the Greeks for Independence and Freedom.
The program begins with the Battle of Peta in 1822, where Greek fighters fought alongside Philhellenes from across Europe. Among those who fell there was the Italian Philhellene Andrea Dania, who reportedly cried out “Victory or Death” shortly before dying.
Professor Anastasopoulos also speaks about the Battle of Kefalovryso, where Markos Botsaris was killed, and the Battle of Maniaki, where Papaflessas fell fighting. The historian also refers to the tragedy of Naousa, when thirteen young women of the city threw themselves into the waterfalls to escape enslavement and dishonor.
The tribute concludes with the Exodus of Messolonghi, an event that shook Europe and strengthened the Philhellenic movement.
The program also refers to other decisive battles of the struggle for independence. Through the discussion, Professor Anastasopoulos highlights how the great battles, defeats, and sacrifices of the Greeks helped shape national consciousness and strengthened the wave of Philhellenism in Europe, ultimately leading to Greece’s independence.
Production – Presentation – Journalistic Research: Stavroula Karali
Sound: Panagiotis Stoupis
Broadcast: Wednesday, 11 March 2026, 22:00–23:00 Athens time
