The 1935 Coup in Greece: General Giorgios Kondylis and the Restoration of the Monarchy

Overview of the 1935 Coup in Greece

General Giorgios Kondylis and His Role

On August 10, 1935, a pivotal event in Greek history unfolded as General Giorgios Kondylis led a coup d'état that restored the monarchy in Greece. After a turbulent period marked by political instability and a republic that struggled to gain traction, Kondylis seized power, rejuvenating royalist sentiment and orchestrating a swift political transformation that significantly influenced the nation’s trajectory.

The Context of the Coup

The backdrop to this coup was a series of political crises that plagued Greece during the early 1930s, which included government collapses and a lack of public trust in the republic. The monarchy, which had been abolished in 1924, lingered in the hearts of many as a symbol of national unity and stability. Kondylis, who had served under King George II, capitalized on this sentiment, asserting that the monarch's reinstatement was essential to restore order.

The Aftermath of Kondylis' Coup

The Restoration of the Monarchy

Following the coup, Kondylis acted swiftly to reinstate King George II, who was living in exile in Paris. This restoration was accompanied by the establishment of a constitutional monarchy, which saw the monarchy regain its former powers while posing as a stabilizing force for the nation. The change was met with mixed reactions, as many Greeks feared a return to authoritarian rule.

Impact on Greek Politics

The coup led to a significant shift in Greece's political landscape. Political parties adapted to the new regime, with many aligning with royalist priorities. Kondylis himself became a respected figure in Greek politics, serving as Prime Minister until he resigned in 1936. The monarchy's restoration, however, set the stage for further political conflicts that ultimately led to Greece's involvement in World War II.

Fun Fact

General Kondylis’ Unique Background

Interestingly, General Kondylis was not solely a military figure; he was also a trained lawyer and linguist, which allowed him to navigate the complex political environment of his time effectively.

Additional Resources

Recommended Reading on Greek Monarchy and Politics

For those interested in exploring this topic further, consider reading The Greek Civil War: 1943-1950 by Mark Mazower or The Balkan Wars: 1912-1913 by Andreas G. S. Christodoulou. These books provide broader context about the political landscape of Greece pre- and post-coup.