Venizelos: The Making Of Greek Statesman (1864-1914)

The life of Eleftherios Venizelos, one of the most influential figures in Greek history, is a captivating tale of determination, leadership, and political prowess. Born in 1864, Venizelos rose to prominence during a critical period in Greek history, shaping the nation's destiny during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Known for his progressive ideas, he steered Greece through numerous challenges and reforms, leaving an indelible mark on the country.

Early Life and Education

Venizelos was born on August 23, 1864, in the village of Mournies, Crete. At the time, Crete was still under Ottoman rule, and his early experiences of oppression kindled within him a sense of nationalism and desire for Greek independence.

Driven by his passion for education, Venizelos moved to Athens at the age of 19 to study law at the University of Athens. During his time in the capital, he became involved in the burgeoning political atmosphere, joining various student organizations and actively participating in debates and discussions.

Venizelos: The Making of a Greek Statesman 1864-1914

by Javier Cercas(Kindle Edition)

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
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The Cretan Struggle

Upon completing his studies, Venizelos returned to Crete, where he quickly emerged as a leader in the struggle for Cretan independence. His charismatic personality and persuasive oratory skills earned him widespread support among the local population.

Through his political maneuvering, Venizelos gained the attention of influential figures both in Greece and abroad. His unwavering commitment to the cause led to the successful establishment of an autonomous Cretan government in 1898, setting the stage for his future political endeavors.

Rise to Power

Venizelos' achievements in Crete propelled him onto the national stage. In 1910, he founded the Liberal Party, advocating for progressive policies and constitutional reforms. His charisma, eloquence, and ability to bridge political divides rapidly gained him popularity among the Greek population.

In 1912, Venizelos played a crucial role in Greece's successful military campaigns, leading to the liberation of several regions from Ottoman control. As a result of his military victories and negotiations, Greece witnessed a significant expansion of its territory and a newfound sense of national pride.

Legacy and Reform

Venizelos' tenure as Prime Minister from 1910 to 1920 and again from 1928 to 1932 left an indelible mark on Greece's political landscape. He implemented numerous reforms that modernized the country, including land redistribution, expansion of social services, and educational reforms.

Furthermore, Venizelos' foreign policy accomplishments cemented Greece's position on the world stage. He played a pivotal role in the Balkan Wars, which secured Greece's territorial gains, and vehemently advocated for Greece's involvement in World War I, which resulted in further territorial expansion.

Death and Legacy

Venizelos' political career eventually came to an end amidst political turmoil and the rise of authoritarian regimes. He spent his final years in exile, but his legacy endured. Even today, his name is synonymous with progressivism, reform, and patriotism.

Eleftherios Venizelos' contributions to Greece's political, social, and educational spheres cannot be overstated. His unwavering dedication and vision for a better Greece propelled the country forward during a critical period in its history.

In recognition of his immense impact, monuments and statues honoring Venizelos can be found throughout Greece, a testament to his enduring legacy and the gratitude of the Greek people.

Venizelos: The Making of a Greek Statesman 1864-1914

by Javier Cercas(Kindle Edition)

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	4152 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	665 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

Eleftherios Venizelos (1864-1936) was the outstanding Greek statesman of the first half of the twentieth century. Michael Llewellyn-Smith traces his early years, political apprenticeship in Crete, and energetic role in that island's emancipation from both Ottoman rule and the arbitrary rule of Prince George of Greece.

Summoned to Athens in 1910 by a cabal of officers, Venizelos mastered the Greek political scene, sent the military back to barracks, and led the country through a glorious period of constitutional and political reform, ending in a Balkan alliance waging successful war against Ottoman rule in Europe. By 1914, Greece had doubled in territory and population, and was about to face the challenges of European war. Tensions were rising between the king and the prime minister, foreshadowing political schism.

This book illuminates Venizelos' political mastery, liberalism and nationalism, and traces his fateful friendship with David Lloyd George. A second volume will complete his story, with the Great War, the post-war peace settlement, Greece's Asia Minor disaster, and Venizelos' late years of renewed prime ministerial office, political polarization and exile in Paris.