The 1960 Olympic gold medal in the Dragon class yachting event served as a major public introduction to Constantine II of Greece, who secured victory alongside Odysseus Eskitzoglou and George Zaimis. This achievement preceded his accession to the throne in 1964, marking the beginning of a reign defined by significant political turbulence and his eventual departure from national life.
Early Life and Exile
Born in 1940 at the Psychiko palace in Athens, Constantine was the son of Crown Prince Paul and Crown Princess Frederica. His childhood was disrupted by World War II, necessitating the relocation of the Greek royal family to Egypt and later South Africa. He returned to Greece in 1946, eventually continuing his education at the Anavryta Classical Lyceum, the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, and the University of Cambridge.
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Constantine became King of the Hellenes in 1964 following his father's death. His tenure faced mounting instability, culminating in the Colonels' Coup of 21 April 1967. Lacking military forces loyal to his command, he initially authorized the junta under the expectation of civilian oversight. He fled the country in December 1967 after a failed countercoup attempt, remaining in exile while formally maintaining his position as head of state.
Transition to Republic
The Greek monarchy was abolished in June 1973, a shift ratified by a subsequent referendum. Following the restoration of democracy in 1974, a second referendum finalized the transition to the Third Hellenic Republic, which Constantine formally accepted. His later life was marked by residence in London and his eventual return to Athens in 2013, where he remained until his death at Hygeia Hospital in 2023.
Fast facts
- Born: 1940, Psychiko palace
- Died: 2023, Hygeia Hospital
- Reign: 1964-1973
- Olympic Medal: Gold, 1960
- Military Rank: Marshal, Admiral of the Fleet, Field Marshal
- Religion: Eastern Orthodoxy
- Buried: Tatoi Royal Cemetery
- Languages: English, Modern Greek
Questions readers ask
What was the result of the 1974 referendum regarding the Greek monarchy?
The referendum confirmed the abolition of the monarchy and the establishment of the Third Hellenic Republic by a majority of nearly 70 percent.
Did Constantine II hold any military ranks?
Yes, he held the ranks of marshal, admiral of the fleet, and field marshal.
Achievements
- King of the Hellenes (1964–1973)
- Knight of the Order of the Golden Fleece
- Knight Grand Cross with Collar of the Order of Saint Olav — 1964
- Knight Grand Cross with Collar of the Order of Merit of the Italian Republic
- Knight of the Order of the Elephant — 1962
- Educated at Anavryta Classical Lyceum and National and Kapodistrian University of Athens
