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), speaks on the program “Remarkable Personalities” with Stavroula Karali about 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 battled alongside Philhellenes from across Europe. Among those killed there was the Italian Philhellene Andrea Dania, who reportedly cried out “Victory or Death” shortly before he died.
Professor Anastasopoulos also discusses 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 leapt into the waterfalls to escape slavery and dishonor.
The tribute concludes with the Exodus of Messolonghi, an event that deeply shocked 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 Philhellenic current in Europe, ultimately leading to Greece’s independence.
The historian also emphasizes the main causes that led to these defeats, the most important being division. As the professor notes, “it was stronger even than the enemy’s cannons.”
Production – Presentation – Journalistic Research: Stavroula Karali
Sound: Panagiotis Stoupis