Background: Greece achieved its independence from the Ottoman Empire in 1829. During the second half of the 19th century and the first half of the 20th century, it gradually added neighboring islands and territories, most with Greek-speaking populations. In World War II, Greece was first invaded by Italy (1940) and subsequently occupied by Germany (1941-44); fighting endured in a protracted civil war between royalist supporters of the king and communist rebels. Following the latter's defeat in 1949, Greece was able to join NATO in 1952. A military dictatorship, which in 1967 suspended many political liberties and forced the king to flee the country, lasted seven years. The 1974 democratic elections and a referendum created a parliamentary republic and abolished the monarchy. Greece joined the European Community or EC in 1981 (which became the EU in 1992); it became the 12th member of the euro zone in 2001.
May 4th 2008Europe » Greece » Ionian Islands » Corfu Hey...First off thanks to everyone for the birthday wishes. I got your cards and messages and I appreciate it. For the birthday a bunch of us all went out and pub hopped around town. Needless to say, ... 35 photos[full story]
April 28th 2008Europe » Greece » Ionian Islands » Corfu Well I've had a great day in Corfu. Last night went pretty late; all my fellow guests were very excited about the toga party that was happening. I was undecided about whether or not to go for a while, ... [full story]
April 27th 2008Europe » Greece » Ionian Islands » Corfu Well the sun came out and I went and checked out Agios Gordios beach, waaaay down the hill. I've decided I do need sunscreen, but I'm not buying it at the hostel; they want about twenty three bucks fo ... [full story]
April 27th 2008Europe » Greece » Ionian Islands » Corfu Well this morning I arrived at six in the am, off the overnight ferry from Ancona. Not much sleep, the only place you can is a room with "air seats"; basically similar to what you'd find on an airplan ... [full story]
April 25th 2008Europe » Greece » Ionian Islands » Corfu My previous blog looked forward to a leisurely cycle into Bari and a ferry to Corfu.
It didn't quite turn out that way.
Buouyed by finding a campsite 20 kms north of Brindisi, a sunny day and the pr ... 3 photos[full story]
October 3rd 2005Europe » Greece » Ionian Islands » Kefalonia Kefalonia was a beautiful island offering a good and varied week for us. Would definately recommend hiring a car and driving the circular route, stopping at beach resorts, quaint villages, and the tr ... 6 photos[full story]
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