Kings of Greece

The history of modern Greece as a monarchy began in the 19th century after the country gained independence from the Ottoman Empire. The Kingdom of Greece was established in 1832, and it continued—with interruptions—until the monarchy was abolished in 1973. During this period, a series of kings from both Bavarian and Danish royal families ruled Greece, shaping its political and social landscape.

Otto of Greece (Reigned 1832–1862)

Otto was the first king of modern Greece, installed by the Great Powers (Britain, France, and Russia). A Bavarian prince, he ruled as an absolute monarch at first, which led to dissatisfaction among Greeks. In 1843, a revolution forced him to grant a constitution. However, his inability to adapt to Greek political realities and his foreign background led to his eventual deposition in 1862.

George I of Greece (Reigned 1863–1913)

Originally a Danish prince, George I brought stability and territorial expansion to Greece. His long reign saw the annexation of regions like Thessaly. He supported constitutional monarchy and worked with elected governments. George I was assassinated in Thessaloniki in 1913.

Constantine I of Greece (Reigned 1913–1917, 1920–1922)

Constantine I, George I’s son, ruled during a turbulent time. His pro-German stance during World War I caused a national division between royalists and supporters of Prime Minister Eleftherios Venizelos. He was forced into exile twice and ultimately abdicated.

Alexander of Greece (Reigned 1917–1920)

Alexander became king after his father’s exile. His reign was largely controlled by political leaders. He died unexpectedly from an infection caused by a monkey bite, leading to further instability.

George II of Greece (Reigned 1922–1924, 1935–1947)

George II’s reign included exile during World War II when Greece was occupied by Axis powers. After the war, a referendum restored him to the throne. His rule ended with his death in 1947.

Paul of Greece (Reigned 1947–1964)

Paul ruled during the Greek Civil War and the early Cold War period. His reign focused on rebuilding the nation and strengthening ties with Western countries.

Constantine II of Greece (Reigned 1964–1973)

Constantine II was the last king of Greece. His reign was marked by political instability and conflict with the military junta that took power in 1967. He went into exile after a failed counter-coup. In 1973, the monarchy was formally abolished, and Greece became a republic.

Conclusion

The monarchy in Greece played a significant role in the country’s transition from a newly independent state to a modern nation. However, political conflicts, foreign influence, and internal divisions ultimately led to its end, paving the way for the establishment of the Hellenic Republic.