Liberty or death!
This clarion call rang out from the monastery of Agia Lavra on this day 200 years ago.
Liberty or death was the call to arms for the revolution to bring freedom and democracy back to the Greek people after 400 years of slavery under the Ottomans.
Drawing inspiration from the French and American revolutions, the Greek people began an uprising that captured the hearts and the support of people who valued freedom and justice in every corner of the world. How could enlightenment, freedom and democracy flourish when the cradle of classic civilization, where democracy first bloomed, remained under occupation and its people were enslaved?
The deeds of the revolutionary heroes spread far and wide. The bravery and sacrifice of these gallant women, men and children eventually resulted in a free and independent Greek state being formed, but sadly after the martyrdom of many of these heroes who never met the freedom they craved but who sacrificed their life in the pursuit of liberty for all.
Tiny Greece became the first modern European Nation-State, once again lighting the path for the formation of the nation states we know today as old empires declined in the face of popular patriotic movements across the world.
Just as the heroism of Kolokotronis, Papaflessas, Mavromihalis, Bouboulina, Nikitaras, the Women of Diro, Rigas Feraios, the Women of Souli and so many others drew admiration and support from Philhellenes of the early 19th century, the same heroism can provide inspiration for us in the modern world as we look to rebuild from recent challenging times.
Just as freedom, justice and democracy are universal ideals, so too are the values of bravery, courage, patriotism and self-sacrifice.
These were the values that drove the men, women and children of Greece to rise up against their oppressors 200 years ago. Today we pause to pay tribute to the tenacity and ferocious commitment of the Greek people. But we should also take a moment to learn from their courageous battles and reflect on the things that are most important to all of us.
Long live freedom!
Long live democracy!
Long live Greece!
Long live the 25th of March!