Alexander I of Greece

Alexander I, King of the Hellenes, ruled Greece from 1917-1920.

Related Topics:
1917 - 1920

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He was born on 21 July (O.S.) = 1 August 1893 at Tatoi near Athens, the second son of Constantine I and his wife, Sophie of Prussia.

Related Topics:
21 July - O.S. - 1 August - 1893 - Tatoi - Constantine I - Sophie of Prussia

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In 1917, Constantine I, known for his pro-German tendencies, insisted that Greece remain neutral in World War I, while Prime minister Eleftherios Venizelos was determined to go to war in support of the Triple Entente. At Venizelos' invitation, French and British troops entered Greece and forced Constantine I and his first born son Prince George into exile. Young Alexander was enthroned as king; in reality he had absolutely no power, and his only real task was to frequently visit the front and rally the troops.

Related Topics:
World War I - Eleftherios Venizelos - Triple Entente - Prince George

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On one major issue, however, he did defy Venizelos: On 4 November 1919 he eloped with a commoner, Aspasia Manos (1896-1972), daughter of Colonel Petros Manos, causing a scandal and infuriating Venizelos who had wanted the young king to marry princess Mary, daughter of king George V of England. The royal couple was forced to temporarily flee to Paris, until the crisis was resolved and his wedding was legalized.

Related Topics:
4 November - 1919 - Aspasia Manos - Mary - George V of England - Paris

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On 25 October 1920 he died at Athens, of sepsis, after been bitten by a pet monkey, as it was announced. According to a rumour of the time though, probably spread by leftists, it is possible that he was assasinated. After his death, his father was permitted to return to Greece as a king.

Related Topics:
25 October - 1920

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His only child, born after his death, was Alexandra of Greece (1921-1993), who later married Peter II, King of Yugoslavia.

Related Topics:
Alexandra of Greece - Peter II, King of Yugoslavia

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