The recognition of Periklis Kallidopoulos as Righteous Among the Nations in 1989 highlights a life defined by both military service and civil intervention. A major general in the Hellenic Army and a former member of the Hellenic Parliament, he navigated the shifting political and conflict-ridden landscape of Greece across seven decades, ultimately leveraging his position to aid those persecuted during the Axis occupation.
Military Career and Service
Kallidopoulos attended the Hellenic Military Academy, beginning a career that saw him rise through the ranks to become a major general. His service spanned multiple decades of regional instability, during which he served in high-level infantry commands. In 1919 and 1920, he held key administrative roles as deputy garrison commander, garrison commander, and general military governor of Smyrna. By 1921, he was directing divisional infantry efforts, later commanding the 13th Division through significant engagement in the summer of 1921 and the conflict in August 1922. Following his capture and subsequent release in 1923, he retired from military duties.
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Upon leaving the armed forces, Kallidopoulos entered the civilian political arena. He secured multiple electoral victories to the Hellenic Parliament, representing the region of Thessaloniki. His administrative experience led to his appointment as Minister Governor-General of Macedonia, a position he held in the cabinet of Eleftherios Venizelos from 4 July 1928 until 7 June 1929.
Resistance and Recognition
During the Axis occupation of Greece, Kallidopoulos participated in the Greek Resistance. He and his son, Alexandros, provided essential aid to the Cohen family, their Jewish neighbours, during their time in the Thessaloniki ghetto. The duo supplied money and sustenance before facilitating the family's flight from the city toward Athens, which remained under the Italian zone of occupation. This effort was formally acknowledged decades later when Yad Vashem bestowed the title of Righteous Among the Nations upon both men in 1989.
Fast facts
- Born: 1872, Chalkidiki
- Died: 1950, Athens
- Rank: Major General
- Education: Hellenic Military Academy
- Political roles: Minister Governor-General of Thessaloniki, Member of Parliament
- Award: Righteous Among the Nations (1989)
Questions readers ask
What specific act led to his recognition by Yad Vashem?
He and his son Alexandros provided food, money, and escape assistance to the Cohen family during the Axis occupation of Greece.
Did he serve in the government?
Yes, he was an elected member of the Hellenic Parliament and served as Minister Governor-General of Macedonia between 1928 and 1929.
Achievements
- Righteous Among the Nations — 1989
- Worked as military personnel and politician
- Educated at Hellenic Military Academy
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