In March 1821, the Greeks started a struggle for independence, which brought the liberation of the Greek people from the Ottoman yoke. Few expected then that the slogan “freedom or death” that prevailed on the flags of the fighters, would be repeated in almost all European languages. The Greek Revolution inspired the uprisings of many European nations and its absolute success proved that freedom can be won even when objective conditions foretell defeat.
The goal of the struggling Greeks was to build a modern state based on the heritage of Greece but also of Europe: individual freedom, democracy, Christian values, which were embraced by the majority of society.
Foreigners rushed to help the Greeks. Among them were Poles, such as Franciszek Mierzejewski, who was killed along with his comrades in the Battle of Peta in 1822, fighting “for our and your freedom.”
The Greek ordeal in the struggle for an independent state – a victorious ordeal – was an inspiration to other oppressed nations.
Poland remembers that Greece was one of the first European countries to recognize its independence when it was reborn after 123 years of partition.
The Parliament of the Republic of Poland, for the 200th anniversary of the beginning of the Greek Revolution, expresses its appreciation to the Greek Nation. Given the experiences of our own history, we know very well that any liberation uprising requires not only excessive courage, but above all, a strong belief in the ideals of freedom, which often require the ultimate sacrifice.
Today, we can proudly repeat the slogan of our common hero of the 20th century, George Ivanov-Sainovich, who at the time of his execution shouted: “Long live Greece, long live Poland!”.
Speaker of Parliament
Elżbieta Witek
SHP and the people of Greece thank the Parliament of Poland for this historic decision which confirms the longstanding friendship between the Greek and Polish people. The Philhellenism Museum will send a photo of a painting on the subject of the Greek Revolution that will be displayed on the facade of the Polish Parliament on March 25, 2021.
