The Bloodless Coup of 1973 in Greece

The Overthrow of George Papadopoulos

George Papadopoulos and the Junta

The **1973 Bloodless military coup** in Greece marked a pivotal moment in the country's history. **George Papadopoulos**, who had been the figurehead leader of the military junta since the coup of 1967, attempted to solidify his power through a series of reforms. However, his authoritarian rule sparked growing unrest among the population and dissent within the military.

The Factors Leading to the Coup

By 1973, the Greek populace was discontent due to economic challenges, political repression, and civil rights violations. As **Papadopoulos** faced increasing opposition, segments of the military began to plot against him, seeking a more moderate leader who would restore democracy.

The Bloodless Transition of Power

The Coup's Execution

On November 17, 1973, a group of military officers, led by **General Dimitrios Ioannidis**, orchestrated a **bloodless coup**. They took control of key government buildings and the state television network, quickly arresting Papadopoulos and his inner circle without significant violence.

Aftermath of the Coup

The coup successfully established a new military government, with **Ioannidis** at the helm. This change paved the way for further political turmoil in Greece, but it also sparked a student uprising at the Athens Polytechnic, leading to significant protests against the junta. This ultimately contributed to the collapse of the regime three years later.

Fun Fact

The Role of the Athens Polytechnic Uprising

The **Athens Polytechnic Uprising**, which occurred just days after the coup, became a symbol of resistance against the military dictatorship. Thousands of students rallied for democracy, and their sacrifices are commemorated each year on November 17 in Greece.

Additional Resources

Recommended Reading on Greek Military Dictatorship

For those interested in delving deeper into this era of Greek history, consider reading “Greece: A History” by John F. Koliopoulos and Thanos Veremis, which provides a comprehensive overview.