OXI Day 1940: A Legacy of Resilience and Unity
No. 99
WASHINGTON, DC - Dr. Alexander Kitroeff, Professor Emeritus of History at Haverford College, delivered a compelling presentation on the significance of OXI Day, marking Greece’s entry into World War II on October 28, 1940. The event, hosted at American Hellenic Institute’s Hellenic House on October 28, explored the enduring legacy of this pivotal moment in modern Greek history.
AHI President Nick Larigakis presented an overview of Oxi Day and introduced Professor Kitroeff for his presentation. In his insightful talk, Kitroeff emphasized the historical importance of OXI Day as one of the major turning points in Greece’s modern narrative, alongside the Greek War of Independence in 1821, the Asia Minor Disaster of 1922, and the restoration of democracy in 1974. Through a series of engaging slides featuring photographs and maps, he illustrated the events of that fateful day when Italian Ambassador Emanuele Grazzi presented Greek Prime Minister Ioannis Metaxas with an ultimatum to allow Italian troops to enter Greece.
Metaxas’ resolute rejection, encapsulated in the word “Oxi” (No), rallied the Greek populace to arms.
The presentation was structured into four key segments. First, Kitroeff provided historical context, highlighting the significance of OXI Day in shaping national identity. He then recounted the dramatic events of October 28, 1940, detailing the Greek response and the ensuing spirit of resistance that characterized the conflict. The third part focused on the remarkable victories of the Greek forces against the Italians, which not only showcased the determination of the Greek people but also delayed Nazi Germany’s planned attack on the Soviet Union.
Finally, Kitroeff identified three major legacies of OXI Day: the unity and resilience of the Greek people in the face of external threats despite internal differences; Greece’s geopolitical significance as part of the Western world, particularly regarding potential adversaries; and the importance of Greece’s wartime alliances and its readiness to defend its territorial claims, including those related to the Aegean islands.
Professor Kitroeff’s presentation served as a powerful reminder of the lessons of OXI Day, emphasizing the themes of solidarity and determination that continue to resonate in Greece and beyond today.
The American Hellenic Institute is an independent non-profit U.S. public policy center and think tank that works to strengthen U.S. relations with Greece and the Republic of Cyprus, and promote issues important to the Greek American community.
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