The term Philhellenes, refers to citizens and military, mainly from Europe and the United States, who assisted Greece during its War of Independence, participating in military operations, contributing financial support, or producing works of literature and art, or through other actions, aimed to promote internationally the struggle of the Greeks.
History of the term
The term appears from the antiquity and is found in the texts of Plato, Herodotus, Isocrate, etc. It largely reflects at that period the efforts of the Greeks to protect Greek civilization against Persian aggression. The term is strongly recorded during the Hellenistic and Roman periods. In the Renaissance, the term “philhellenes” was used to refer to those who loved the ancient Greek literature.
Thus philhellenism emerges as a timeless wave in history, fueled by the spiritual radiance of Hellenism.
The number of recorded Philhellenes who fought in Greece is estimated at around 1200, coming from the following countries: Germany, France, Italy, England, Switzerland, Poland, Netherlands, Belgium, USA, Hungary, Sweden, Spain, Denmark, etc. In average, one out of three was killed in battle or died of hardship or injuries.
At the same time, a large number of citizens from intellectual, political, artistic, journalistic, and other circles, contributed to the Greek cause. Thus thousands of citizens in Europe and the USA helped the struggle of the Greeks.
List of philhellenes
SHP has already recorded a total of 1500 important Philhellenes, who are listed below with short biographies.
SHP will continue the research and study work to identify all those who contributed significantly to Greece and Western culture, until all Philhellenes are honored as they deserve.To achieve this, SHP is looking forward to comments, suggestions and additional information from any interested person.
Communication: info@eefshp.org
SHP will publish here the names and biographies of 1500 Philhellenes on 25 March 2021.
