Cretan fighters of the Macedonian Struggle (1904-1908)

The Macedonian Struggle was a series of irregular clashes between mainly Greek and Bulgarian armed forces that took place from 1904 to 1908 in the region of Macedonia, with the Cretan armed forces having a significant participation in this struggle, both at the level of ordinary fighters and at the level of experienced military officers, such as captains. They constituted one of the most numerous groups of Greek fighters in Macedonia and were distinguished for their fighting ability and bravery. The contribution of the Cretans to the Macedonian Struggle was not only on a numerical level, but also on an ideological one. Their philanthropy and their belief in independence strengthened the determination and endurance of the fighters. The slogan "Union or Death" which they adopted against the Ottomans in the Cretan Revolutions is an expression of their determination and commitment to the struggle for freedom. Pictured: Black and white postcard depicting three Cretan chieftains of the Macedonian Struggle, Ioannis Karavitis, Makris (G. Dikonimos) and Georgios Volanis. ©Macedonia Historical Archive.