Greece Commemorates 28 October: 86 Years Since the Historic 'No' to Mussolini
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Greece celebrates one of its most important national anniversaries on Wednesday. On this day in 1940, the Greek government rejected the ultimatum given to it by the Italian dictator Benito Mussolini. The ultimatum demanded that Greece allow Italian troops to pass through and occupy strategic points in the country.
Prime Minister Ioannis Metaxas answered with the word "no" ("Oxi"). This answer became a symbol of national resistance and the courage of the Greeks. A few hours later, Italian troops attacked the country from Albania, and the Greco-Italian War began. The Greek army resisted successfully and forced the Italian forces to retreat from a large part of Northern Epirus.
Today, 28 October is honoured throughout Greece with parades, the laying of wreaths at monuments to the fallen, and school events. Students and military units take part in the parades, while local authorities organise commemorative events. The anniversary is a public holiday and reminds Greeks of the value of freedom and national independence.
The day of 28 October remains important for modern Greek history and for national memory. Events continue throughout the day in towns and villages across the country.
Sources: Dnews
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