Birth of Theodoros Kolokotronis
Theodoros Kolokotronis was born on April 3, 1770, in the village of Ramovouni in Messenia, Greece. His family was involved in the klephtic tradition, fighting against Ottoman rule.
1770
1790
Early Resistance Activities
In his early twenties, Kolokotronis joined the klephts, local bandits who resisted Ottoman rule, gaining a reputation for his bravery and tactical skills.
1806
Flight to the Ionian Islands
Facing increasing pressure from Ottoman forces, Kolokotronis fled to the Ionian Islands, which were under British control. There, he joined the British army and learned modern military tactics.
1810
Service in the British Army
Kolokotronis served in the British army, reaching the rank of major. This period was crucial in shaping his military strategies, which he later used in the Greek War of Independence.
1821
Outbreak of the Greek War of Independence
Kolokotronis returned to Greece and became one of the leading figures in the Greek War of Independence, which began in 1821. He played a key role in organizing and leading the Greek forces.
1822
Siege of Tripolitsa
Kolokotronis led the Greek forces in the successful siege of Tripolitsa, a major Ottoman stronghold in the Peloponnese. This victory was a turning point in the war.
1823
Internal Conflicts
Despite his successes, Kolokotronis faced internal conflicts within the Greek revolutionary leadership, leading to his temporary imprisonment.
1825
Return to Leadership
Kolokotronis was released from prison to help defend against the Egyptian forces led by Ibrahim Pasha, who had been sent to suppress the Greek revolution.
1826
Defense of Mani
Kolokotronis played a crucial role in the defense of the Mani Peninsula, successfully repelling Egyptian forces and maintaining a stronghold for the Greek revolutionaries.
1827
Navarino Naval Battle
The Battle of Navarino, where the allied fleets of Britain, France, and Russia defeated the Ottoman-Egyptian fleet, was a decisive moment in the war. Kolokotronis' efforts on land complemented this naval victory.
1828
Governor Kapodistrias' Arrival
The arrival of Ioannis Kapodistrias as the first Governor of Greece marked a new phase in the revolution. Kolokotronis supported Kapodistrias' efforts to stabilize the new state.
1830
Independence Recognition
The London Protocol of 1830 recognized Greece as an independent state. Kolokotronis' contributions were crucial to achieving this milestone.
1832
Establishment of the Kingdom of Greece
The Kingdom of Greece was formally established, with Otto of Bavaria as its first king. Kolokotronis initially supported the new monarchy but later became disillusioned with its policies.
1834
Imprisonment by King Otto
Kolokotronis was imprisoned by King Otto's government due to his opposition to certain policies. He was later pardoned in 1835.
1843
Death of Kolokotronis
Theodoros Kolokotronis died on February 4, 1843, in Athens. He is remembered as one of the greatest heroes of the Greek War of Independence.
