World War II left its mark on nearly every aspect of life in Europe, and Greece was no exception. For philatelists, Greek WWII stamps tell a unique story of national pride, resistance, and eventual liberation. This article explores how stamps from the Greek-Italian War, the Axis occupation, and the post-occupation resistance periods reflect a turbulent time in Greek history. By examining these philatelic issues, we gain insights into the Greek struggle, resilience, and cultural identity that prevailed even in times of occupation.
Background: Greek-Italian War and Early Stamps
The Greek-Italian War began in October 1940, with Italy’s attempted invasion via Albania. Despite the Italian military advantage, the Greek forces managed to turn back the Italians, marking one of the first major Axis defeats. This successful resistance was celebrated by issuing a series of stamps that commemorated Greek valor, a theme echoing ancient battles like Thermopylae. These stamps symbolized national pride and set a tone that would persist throughout the war years.
Axis Occupation and its Philatelic Impact
From 1941 to 1944, Greece faced occupation by Germany, Italy, and Bulgaria, each controlling different regions. Each occupier imposed its postal administration and, in some cases, specific stamps.
- German-Controlled Regions: Germany administered Athens, Salonika, and various islands but did not issue any specific occupation stamps. Instead, they allowed the use of pre-existing Greek stamps with new administrative policies.
- Italian-Controlled Ionian Islands: Italy introduced overprinted stamps for the Ionian Islands, which were closer to Italian territory. These stamps were intended as a display of control and future annexation ambitions.
- Bulgarian Occupied Thrace: Bulgaria used its own stamps in the Thrace region, further enforcing their occupation and intentions for territorial expansion.
“Views Issue” Stamps: A Break from Greek History and Culture
During the occupation, the Germans replaced the celebrated historical and cultural motifs on Greek stamps with the bland “Views Issue.” This series, showing landscapes and cityscapes, marked a departure from the country’s rich heritage, deliberately omitting references to Greece’s proud past and military successes. Produced in vast quantities, these stamps remain highly common and are seen as symbols of occupation compliance rather than cultural pride.
Resistance and Liberation: The Symbols of Freedom
As Greek resistance to the Axis powers gained strength, two major groups—the Greek People’s Liberation Army (EAM-ELAS) and the Greek Democratic National Army (EDES)—fought back against occupiers. Their efforts extended to the creation of symbolic stamps in liberated areas. These stamps, issued by resistance groups, depict themes of victory, resilience, and national pride. In liberated areas like Lesbos, these stamps sometimes feature local landscapes or heroic imagery and served as powerful symbols of Greek sovereignty.
Key WWII Stamp Sets and Notable Issues
- Rimini and El Alamein Commemorations: Post-war stamps honored Greek participation in significant battles like the Battle of Rimini (1944) and the Second Battle of El Alamein (1942). These battles showcased Greece’s contribution to the Allied efforts, with stamps commemorating these campaigns as a source of national pride.
- The Pindus Women and Albanian Campaign: A distinct set honored the women from Epirus who supported Greek troops during the Italian invasion. These stamps depicted scenes from the Albanian front, highlighting civilian contributions, including carrying supplies and aiding soldiers.
- Greek Heroes and Ancient Symbolism: The final commemorative sets draw inspiration from classical themes and modern heroism, featuring Greek soldiers and victories. Even after liberation, stamps were produced to honor key battles and figures, capturing the essence of Greek resilience.
Legacy of Greek WWII Philatelic History
The Greek stamps of WWII capture more than postal history—they tell a story of resilience, culture, and patriotism under occupation. For collectors, these stamps serve as lasting relics of a period marked by struggle and resistance, shedding light on the role of philately in Greece’s WWII history.
Through these stamps, Greece memorialized not only its struggles against the Axis powers but also its hope for freedom. Today, philatelists and historians alike find in these stamps a testament to Greece’s indomitable spirit.
