Constantine II becomes King of Greece.

The Last King of Greece: A Royal Life Amidst Tumultuous Times

Born on June 2, 1940, Constantine II (Greek: Κωνσταντίνος Βʹ, Konstantínos II, pronounced [ˌkonstaˈdinos ðefˈteros]) holds a unique place in history as the former and last King of Greece. His reign, which commenced on March 6, 1964, spanned a politically volatile decade, ultimately concluding with the abolition of the Greek monarchy on June 1, 1973. His life story is deeply intertwined with the dramatic shifts in 20th-century Greek politics, marked by exile, a brief period of rule, and a return to exile.

A Childhood Shaped by War and Displacement

Constantine was the sole son of King Paul and Queen Frederica of Greece, born into a royal lineage that faced immense challenges. His earliest years were far from the comforts of a stable palace; the shadow of the Second World War forced his family into exile. He spent a significant part of his childhood in distant lands, first in Egypt and later in South Africa, experiencing displacement from a very young age. It wasn't until 1946, amidst the ongoing Greek Civil War, that his family could finally return to their homeland. The death of his grandfather, King George II, in 1947 elevated his father, Paul, to the throne, consequently making young Constantine the crown prince and heir apparent, a role that hinted at the destiny awaiting him.

From Crown Prince to King: A Brief, Eventful Reign

The call to the throne came swiftly in 1964 following the passing of his father, King Paul. At just 23 years old, the young monarch acceded to power, with many initially viewing his ascension with hope and optimism for a new era. Later that same year, he celebrated his marriage to Princess Anne-Marie of Denmark, a union that would eventually bless them with five children. However, the initial auspicious outlook quickly clouded. Constantine’s reign was unfortunately characterized by escalating political instability, a period of profound uncertainty that dramatically culminated in the Colonels' Coup on April 21, 1967.

The Colonels' Coup and Life in Exile

The military coup of 1967 plunged Greece into a dictatorship and placed King Constantine II in an incredibly precarious position. As the head of state, he found himself with virtually no loyal military forces to rely upon, leaving him with very limited options for maneuvering. Under immense pressure, he reluctantly agreed to inaugurate the junta, albeit on the critical condition that the government would largely consist of civilian ministers. This fragile compromise, however, proved unsustainable. On December 13, 1967, after an unsuccessful counter-coup against the junta, Constantine was compelled to flee the country with his family. Despite his physical absence, he remained, at least formally, the head of state in exile until the junta officially abolished the monarchy on June 1, 1973. The subsequent Greek republic referendum on July 29, 1973, served to ratify this abolition, though its validity was widely questioned due to the prevailing authoritarian climate.

The End of an Era: Referendums and the Third Hellenic Republic

Following the restoration of democracy in Greece and the fall of the junta, a fresh and truly free referendum was deemed necessary to definitively settle the question of the monarchy. This second, crucial vote, known as the 1974 Greek republic referendum, took place on December 8, 1974. The outcome unequivocally confirmed the abolition of the monarchy and paved the way for the establishment of the Third Hellenic Republic. Constantine, who was not permitted to return to Greece to campaign during this critical period, graciously accepted the results of the plebiscite, marking a definitive end to his role as monarch and the long history of the Greek royal family.

Beyond the Crown: An Olympian and International Figure

Constantine's life was not solely defined by his royal duties and political struggles; he also distinguished himself as a former competitive sailor and an Olympian. His athletic prowess shone brightly at the 1960 Rome Olympics, where he clinched a gold medal in the Dragon class sailing event. This achievement earned him, along with his fellow crew members of the Nireus sailing vessel, the prestigious title of one of the 1960 Greek Athletes of the Year. His commitment to sports extended beyond competition, as he later served with distinction on the International Olympic Committee, continuing his contribution to the global athletic community.

Frequently Asked Questions About Constantine II

Who was Constantine II?
Constantine II was the last King of Greece, reigning from 1964 until the monarchy's abolition in 1973. He was also an Olympic gold medalist in sailing.
When was Constantine II born?
He was born on June 2, 1940.
When did Constantine II become King?
He acceded to the throne on March 6, 1964, following the death of his father, King Paul.
Why did Constantine II leave Greece?
He was forced to flee Greece in December 1967 after an unsuccessful counter-coup against the military junta that had seized power earlier that year.
When was the Greek monarchy abolished?
The monarchy was formally abolished by the junta on June 1, 1973, and this decision was ratified by a public referendum in December 1974 after the restoration of democracy.
Did Constantine II ever return to Greece?
After the monarchy's abolition, he remained in exile for many years. He eventually returned to Greece, initially for short visits, and later made it his permanent home in the 21st century.
What was Constantine II's achievement in sports?
He won a gold medal in sailing at the 1960 Rome Olympics in the Dragon class and later served on the International Olympic Committee.