Restoration of King George II to the Greek Throne

On November 3, 1935, King George II returned to Greece as the king after a national plebiscite confirmed the restoration of the monarchy, ending the Second Hellenic Republic.

Context

• The Second Hellenic Republic (1924-1935): Established after the abolition of the monarchy following Greece’s military defeat in the Asia Minor Campaign and the subsequent political instability.
• Political Instability: This period was marked by frequent changes in government, economic difficulties, and political strife between monarchists and republicans.

Events Leading to the Restoration

• Monarchist Sentiment: Increasing dissatisfaction with the republican regime led to the coup d’état by General Georgios Kondylis on October 10, 1935.
• Plebiscite Announcement: Kondylis, having assumed the position of Regent, organized a plebiscite to decide on the restoration of the monarchy.
• Plebiscite Results: Conducted on November 3, 1935, the plebiscite allegedly showed overwhelming support for the return of the monarchy, though reports suggest that the voting process was heavily manipulated.

George II’s Return

• King George II’s Restoration: With the favorable results of the plebiscite, King George II returned from exile on the same day, reclaiming the throne.
• Public Reaction: While the restoration was celebrated by monarchists, republicans and some international observers criticized the legitimacy of the plebiscite.

Aftermath

• Political Shifts: The monarchy’s restoration was part of a broader trend of authoritarianism, with political opponents often being suppressed.
• Metaxas Regime: The restoration laid the groundwork for the establishment of the Metaxas Regime in 1936, a period of authoritarian rule under Ioannis Metaxas.

Historical Significance

The return of King George II marks a pivotal moment in Greek history, illustrating the ongoing struggle between monarchist and republican factions. It foreshadowed the authoritarian rule that would come to define Greece’s political landscape leading up to and during World War II.