In the second episode of “Historical Walks” dedicated to the story of Greek Americans, we continue our insightful discussion with historian Professor Alexander Kitroeff, focusing on the post–World War II years.
The war marked a major turning point in how Greek immigrants were viewed by American society. Until then, Greece had been a distant and relatively obscure country in the minds of most Americans. But on October 28, 1940, Greece boldly entered the international stage as a frontline force in the global struggle against fascism. The heroism of the Greek people earned worldwide admiration.
At the same time, the second—and gradually the third—generation of the original immigrants who arrived at the end of the 19th century were beginning to rise through the ranks of American society, fulfilling their ambitions and building lives grounded in hard work and perseverance.
By the second half of the 20th century, the Greek-American community had secured a distinct and enduring place within the broader Greek diaspora—an integral part of the American nation, yet still deeply connected to its roots in Greece.
With clarity and depth, Professor Kitroeff traces this journey—a narrative that tells not just the story of one community, but also the intertwined histories of Greece and the United States.
Hosted by Marilena Katsimi, journalist
Broadcast: Saturday, May 17, 2025, 13:00–14:00 Athens time
