Zakynthos, also known as Zante, has a rich history. Its time during World War II is especially significant. The island, with an area of 405.55 km2, was occupied by the Axis powers, mainly Italians and then Germans. This period showed the island’s and its people’s strength, especially in their dealings with the local Jewish community.
Before the war, there were about 275 Jews on the island. The war’s effects were felt across the Ionian Islands. Zakynthos was freed in September 1944, a moment of great victory. This event shows the bravery and will of its people in hard times. Learning about Zakynthos during WWII helps us understand its deep history and culture.
Key Takeaways
- Zakynthos was under Axis occupation during World War II.
- The island had a vibrant Jewish community, which largely survived the Holocaust.
- The liberation of Zakynthos occurred in September 1944, marking a pivotal moment in its history.
- Understanding Zakynthos during ww2 enriches the narrative of Greek islands in World War 2.
- The island’s resilience during challenging times is a testament to its cultural depth.
Overview of the Axis Occupation in Greece
The axis occupation Greece started with Italy’s invasion in 1940. Greek forces resisted fiercely. Then, Germany joined in April 1941, making things worse. Zakynthos and other areas were controlled by different Axis powers.
Italy wanted to add the Ionian Islands to their empire. They imposed strict rules that upset the locals. This led to huge losses for Greece, with 80% of its industry and 28% of its infrastructure destroyed.
The people suffered a lot. About 7-11% of the population died during the occupation. Athens was especially hard hit, with thousands dying from hunger. The Jewish community was also severely affected, with only 11,000-12,000 survivors out of 75,000.
Greece fought back bravely. Greek resistance groups killed over 21,000 Axis soldiers. The war left Greece with at least 250,000 dead. After Italy surrendered in September 1943, the Germans tightened their grip even more.
As the occupation dragged on, the locals fought for freedom. Many showed great courage, risking their lives to resist. For more on the cultural impacts, check out cultural transformations in Zakynthos during this time.
Zakynthos during WW2: Historical insights
The history of Zakynthos during WW2 is filled with key moments, especially the battle of Zakynthos 1943. The island’s location made it crucial for military actions. As the Axis forces got stronger, the locals fought back bravely.
The people of Zakynthos showed incredible kindness by hiding all 275 Jews from deportation. This act was remarkable, especially since most of Greece’s Jews were killed during the war. Yad Vashem honoured the island’s mayor and bishop in 1978 for their bravery.
The battle of Zakynthos 1943 was intense, but the locals didn’t give up. After the Italians surrendered, the Germans took full control. Despite the rising violence, the people of Zakynthos showed great courage during WW2.
Many stories came out of that time, like Chaim Constantinidis, who survived by hiding with his family. His story shows the danger faced by Jewish families and the community’s effort to protect them. Zakynthos’s history during WW2 is a powerful reminder of humanity’s strength in the face of adversity.
Life on Zakynthos under German Occupation
Life on Zakynthos during the German occupation was tough. The islanders faced many challenges. The german troops zakynthos brought fear and uncertainty.
Everyday life became a fight for survival. There were curfews and raids often. Food was scarce, and the economy suffered, making life harder for the locals.
The constant threat of violence made everyone tense. When there was resistance, the german troops zakynthos would retaliate harshly. This led to many Greek civilian casualties.
Yet, the community showed great strength. People came together to protect each other. This unity gave them hope in dark times.
Community leaders, like Bishop Chrysostomos, were key. He helped people resist and ensured goods reached those who needed them. The islanders showed great solidarity, protecting each other from harm.
The people of Zakynthos showed incredible courage. They stood up against fascist rule, risking their lives. Their story is a testament to their strength and dignity.
| Key Events | Details |
|---|---|
| Date of Italian occupation | 01 May 1941 |
| Curfew for Jewish population | September 1943 |
| Number of Jews living in Zakynthos | 275 |
| Liberation of Zakynthos | 12 September 1944 |
| Actions of Bishop Chrysostomos | Organised resistance network for essential goods |
| German Headquarters | Kipi |
| Number of German identities refused by local leaders | 2 |
Zakynthos during WW2: The Jewish Community’s Experience
The Jewish community of Zakynthos faced a very dark time during World War II. After Italy surrendered in 1943, the Germans took over and started to persecute Jews. At the start of the war, about 270 Jews lived there. But by the end, only 70 to 80 Jews were left.
The local Christians showed great courage by protecting their Jewish friends. This act of kindness showed the strong bond between the communities during a hard time.
Mayor Loukas Karrer and Bishop Dimitrios Chrysostomos were key figures in saving the Jews. They refused to give the Germans a list of Jewish residents. This brave act saved all 275 Jews of Zakynthos.
After the war, the Jewish community went through big changes. In 1948, some Jews donated stained glass for the Church of Saint Dionyssios. This was to honour those who saved them during the Holocaust.
But, the community faced more challenges. The 1953 earthquake destroyed the Jewish quarter and its synagogues. This led to the departure of the remaining 38 Jews to Athens.
In 1978, Yad Vashem honoured Karrer and Chrysostomos for their bravery. They were named “Righteous among the Nations”. In 1992, two marble monuments were built to remember their heroism.
| Year | Event | Jewish Population |
|---|---|---|
| 1686 | Jewish community numbered around 1,000 | 1,000 |
| 1891 | Population estimate between 200-300 | 200-300 |
| 1940 | Population at outbreak of WWII | 270 |
| 1943 | German occupation begins | 70-80 |
| 1944 | Zakynthos liberation | 275 saved |
| 1948 | Donation to Church of Saint Dionyssios | 70 |
| 1953 | Earthquake destroys Jewish quarter | 38 |
| 1982 | Last Jewish resident passes away | 0 |
The story of Zakynthos’s Jewish community is one of courage and kindness. The resistance fighters showed strength and compassion. Their bravery is remembered through history and the stories of their descendants, like Mimica Tsezana-Hyman.
Discover more about Zakynthos’s rich history.
The Liberation of Zakynthos and its Aftermath
The liberation of Zakynthos in 1944 was a key moment in the island’s history during World War II. On 12 September 1944, British forces and local fighters joined forces against the Germans. This move ended the oppressive rule and sparked joy among the 42,000 islanders.
The islanders had shown great courage and unity during the German occupation. After the liberation, they faced the challenge of rebuilding their homes and communities. The people came together, showing their strength and solidarity.
321 Greeks, including leaders like Metropolitan Chrysostomos and Mayor Carrer, were hailed as heroes. They were recognised for helping the Jewish community, the only one in Greece saved from the Nazis.
After the war, Zakynthos continued to reflect on its liberation. A major earthquake in 1953 led to many leaving, including the Jewish community, who moved to Israel. Yet, the island’s bravery and protection are still celebrated. Today, the story of Zakynthos inspires future generations, highlighting the importance of standing together against oppression.
