The Long and Winding Road to Independence for Greece
The Greek War of Independence was a long and difficult struggle. The Greeks had been under Ottoman rule for more than 400 years, and the Ottoman Empire had become increasingly oppressive. The Greeks were determined to break free from Ottoman rule and establish a new, independent Greek state.
The Greek War of Independence began on March 25, 1821, when the Greek people rose up and declared their independence. This day is now celebrated every year as Greek Independence Day.
On Greek Independence Day, Greeks around the world come together not only to celebrate their independence, but the day is also marked with religious services, parades, festivals and special events. People from all over the country come together to celebrate.
The Greek flag is also prominently displayed on this day. The white cross on a blue background is a symbol of the struggle for freedom. The nine stripes on the flag represent the nine syllables of the phrase Eleftheria i Thanatos, which means “Freedom or Death."
On Greek Independence Day, Greeks also remember the heroes of the War of Independence. These brave men and women sacrificed their lives for the cause of freedom, and their courage and dedication are remembered and celebrated every year.
New Bedford Mayor Jon Mitchell will proclaim March 25 as Greek Independence Day with a ceremony and flag raising of both the Greek and American flags at 1 p.m. in front of City Hall, with Mitchell, new pastor Father Peter Leneweaver, and other local residents of Greek decent saying a few words of gratitude to the United States for always being a strong friend of Hellenism.
Greek Independence Day is an important day for all Greeks. It is a day to remember the struggles of the past and to celebrate the freedom that the Greeks have today.