Hellás
State of Hellás | |
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 Flag
.svg) Emblem
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| Motto: Ὁ σταυρὸς θηριοπονήσει τὸν κόσμον (Ancient Greek) O stauròs thērioponḗsei tòn kósmon The Cross will conquer the world | |
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| Capital and largest city | Phoebópolis |
| Official languages | Greeka |
| Religion | 100% Hellás Orthodox Churchb |
| Government | Unitary parliamentary theocratic republic |
• Supreme Leader | Thracidaios I |
• President | Khersiphron Katsariades |
| Legislature | Congress of Hellás |
| Area | |
• Total | 203,653 km2 (78,631 sq mi) |
| Population | |
• Estimate | 23,568,292 |
| Currency | Drachma (HLD) |
| Driving side | right |
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Hellás officially the State of Hellás (Ancient Greek: Πολιτεία Ἑλλάδος Politeia Elládos) is a country located in East Europe. It is a full member of UN, NATO, OPEC, G-7 and G-20. It is by far one of the most well developed economies in Europe, with a high income and a stable and controlled inflation. It covers an area of 203653 km² and its capital is Phoebópolis.
History
Prehistory
The history of Hellás begins in prehistoric times with the earliest signs of human settlement dating back to the Upper Paleolithic period, around 20,000 BCE. Archaeological findings in the Aegean Islands and mainland Hellás reveal advanced Neolithic cultures by 7000 BCE, characterized by the development of agriculture, pottery, and intricate stone tools. The early Helláite societies thrived along the fertile coastal plains and river valleys, leaving behind evidence of sophisticated social structures and trade networks with neighboring regions.
Ancient Period
The Bronze Age (3000–1200 BCE)
During the Bronze Age, Hellás saw the emergence of significant civilizations, most notably the Minoan civilization on the island of Kriti (Crete) and the Mycenaean civilization on the mainland. The Minoans, flourishing between 2700 and 1450 BCE, were known for their palatial centers, vibrant frescoes, and extensive maritime trade. The Mycenaeans, rising to prominence around 1600 BCE, are celebrated for their formidable fortresses, linear B script, and legendary epics like the Iliad and the Odyssey, which later shaped Hellenic identity.
The Classical Period (800–323 BCE)
Following the decline of the Mycenaean civilization, the so-called Dark Ages of Hellás witnessed a regression in complex societal structures. By the 8th century BCE, Hellás had entered the Archaic Period, marked by the rise of city-states (polis) such as Athína (Athens), Spárti (Sparta), and Korinthos (Corinth). This period saw the birth of democracy in Athína, the militaristic society of Spárti, and the spread of Hellenic culture across the Mediterranean through colonization and trade.
The Classical Period, from the 5th to 4th centuries BCE, is considered the zenith of Hellenic civilization. It produced monumental achievements in philosophy, drama, art, and architecture. The Persian Wars (499–449 BCE) united the city-states against a common enemy, fostering a sense of shared Hellenic identity. The subsequent Peloponnesian War (431–404 BCE), however, weakened the Greek city-states, paving the way for the rise of Makedonía (Macedonia) under Philip II and his son, Alexander the Great. Alexander’s conquests spread Hellenic culture as far as India, initiating the Hellenistic Period.
The Hellenistic Period (323–30 BCE)
Following Alexander's death in 323 BCE, his vast empire fractured into Hellenistic kingdoms ruled by his generals. Hellás itself became a cultural and intellectual hub under the influence of the Ptolemaic, Seleucid, and Antigonid dynasties. Centers like Alexandría (Alexandria) and Pérgamos (Pergamon) attracted scholars and artists, blending Hellenic culture with local traditions. The period was marked by significant advancements in science, philosophy, and the arts, contributing to a rich legacy that would profoundly influence the Roman Empire.
Roman and Byzantine Rule (30 BCE–1453 CE)
Hellás fell under Roman rule after the defeat of the last Hellenistic kingdom, Ptolemaic Egypt, in 30 BCE. Despite Roman dominance, Hellás remained a center of learning and culture. The Romans admired and absorbed Hellenic art, philosophy, and literature, integrating it into their own civilization. Cities like Athína continued to thrive as intellectual hubs, while new urban centers like Thessaloníki (Thessalonica) grew in importance.
Byzantine Era (330–1453 CE)
In 330 CE, Emperor Constantine I established Constantinople (modern-day Istanbul) as the capital of the Eastern Roman Empire, later known as the Byzantine Empire. Hellás, now part of the Byzantine Empire, enjoyed a period of relative stability and prosperity. The region became a vital part of the Byzantine economy and a bastion of Orthodox Christianity. Byzantine rule saw the construction of impressive architectural works, such as the Hagia Sophia in Constantinople and numerous churches and monasteries throughout Hellás.
Ottoman Rule (1453–1821)
The fall of Constantinople in 1453 marked the beginning of Ottoman rule over Hellás, which lasted for nearly four centuries. During this period, Hellás experienced significant cultural and demographic changes. Many Helláites were subjected to heavy taxation and were forced to convert to Islam, while others maintained their Orthodox Christian faith in isolated rural communities. Despite the challenges, Hellenic culture and traditions persisted, often expressed through clandestine education and the preservation of folk customs.
The Struggle for Independence (1821–1832)
Inspired by the ideals of the Enlightenment and the successful revolutions in America and France, Hellás embarked on a struggle for independence in 1821. The Greek War of Independence was characterized by fierce battles, notable uprisings, and the involvement of European powers. Key figures like Theódoros Kolokotrónis and Lord Byron emerged as national heroes. After a protracted conflict and significant foreign intervention, Hellás achieved independence in 1832 with the Treaty of Constantinople, establishing itself as a sovereign state under the protection of Britain, France, and Russia.
Modern Hellás (1832–Present)
The Monarchy and Expansion (1832–1924)
Following independence, Hellás was initially established as a monarchy under King Otto of Bavaria. The newly-formed nation faced the challenges of building a modern state, integrating diverse regions, and fostering economic development. The reign of King George I (1863–1913) saw territorial expansion, including the integration of Thessaloníki and East Thrace, and significant political reforms.
During World War I, Hellás was initially neutral but eventually joined the Allies, resulting in the occupation of parts of Anatolia. The subsequent Greco-Turkish War (1919–1922) ended disastrously for Hellás, leading to the Treaty of Lausanne (1923) and a massive population exchange between Hellás and Turkey.
The Republic and World War II (1924–1949)
In 1924, Hellás declared itself a republic, but the subsequent years were marked by political instability and economic turmoil. The monarchy was briefly restored in 1935, only to be disrupted again by World War II. Hellás was invaded and occupied by Axis powers, enduring severe hardships, including famine and resistance movements. The post-war period saw a devastating civil war (1946–1949) between communist and government forces, resulting in significant loss of life and the eventual victory of the government, supported by the United States.
Post-War Recovery and the Cold War (1950–1991)
In the aftermath of the civil war, Hellás embarked on a path of reconstruction and economic development. The country joined NATO in 1952 and received substantial economic aid through the Marshall Plan. The 1950s and 1960s were periods of rapid industrialization and modernization. However, political tensions remained high, culminating in a military coup in 1967 that established a dictatorship known as the Regime of the Colonels. This regime lasted until 1974, when a popular uprising and the Turkish invasion of Cyprus led to its collapse.
The Third Hellenic Republic and European Integration (1974–Present)
The restoration of democracy in 1974 marked the beginning of the Third Hellenic Republic. A new constitution was adopted, and political stability gradually returned. The 1980s and 1990s saw significant economic growth and modernization, although the country also faced challenges, including economic crises and social unrest.
In recent decades, Hellás has played an active role in international organizations, including the United Nations, NATO, OPEC, and the G-20. It has been a member of the G-7 since 2024, reflecting its growing influence in global economic affairs. Hellás has also been at the forefront of addressing regional challenges in the Eastern Mediterranean and the Balkans, advocating for peace, stability, and cooperation.
Hellás in the 21st Century
Entering the 21st century, Hellás has continued to navigate economic challenges, notably the severe debt crisis of the 2010s, which necessitated international bailouts and significant austerity measures. Despite these difficulties, Hellás has shown resilience and a commitment to reform. The nation has become a key player in regional energy politics, leveraging its strategic location and resources. Hellás's rich cultural heritage and historical legacy continue to attract millions of visitors each year, making tourism a vital sector of its economy.
Hellás remains a steadfast advocate for democracy, human rights, and environmental sustainability on the global stage. Its membership in international organizations underscores its role as a bridge between Europe, the Middle East, and Asia, positioning Hellás as a crucial player in addressing contemporary global challenges.
Geography and climate
Hellás mostly features a hot semi-arid climate (BSh) with high temperatures all year round and two seasons differenced by precipitations. It is dry and relatively cooler on November through February. The 'rains' start from April through August, when it is usual to record more than 115 millimetres (4.5 in).
| Climate data for Phoebópolis | |||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | Year |
| Average high °C (°F) | 41.6 (106.9) |
41.6 (106.9) |
42.7 (108.9) |
43.1 (109.6) |
43.4 (110.1) |
44.0 (111.2) |
44.2 (111.6) |
44.2 (111.6) |
44.2 (111.6) |
44.1 (111.4) |
42.3 (108.1) |
42.0 (107.6) |
43.1 (109.6) |
| Daily mean °C (°F) | 30.8 (87.4) |
30.8 (87.4) |
31.4 (88.5) |
31.7 (89.1) |
32.0 (89.6) |
32.6 (90.7) |
33.3 (91.9) |
33.1 (91.6) |
33.0 (91.4) |
32.6 (90.7) |
31.3 (88.3) |
31.0 (87.8) |
32.0 (89.5) |
| Average low °C (°F) | 20.0 (68.0) |
20.1 (68.2) |
20.1 (68.2) |
20.4 (68.7) |
20.6 (69.1) |
21.3 (70.3) |
22.4 (72.3) |
22.0 (71.6) |
21.8 (71.2) |
21.2 (70.2) |
20.3 (68.5) |
20.0 (68.0) |
20.8 (69.5) |
| Average precipitation mm (inches) | 3.7 (0.15) |
32.2 (1.27) |
57.4 (2.26) |
90.9 (3.58) |
110.8 (4.36) |
113.8 (4.48) |
114.8 (4.52) |
111.6 (4.39) |
83.9 (3.30) |
71.4 (2.81) |
46.9 (1.85) |
13.6 (0.54) |
851 (33.51) |
| Source: [NAME OF THE WEBSITE] | |||||||||||||