Alexandros Koryzis (Greek: Αλέξανδρος Κορυζής, 1885 – April 18, 1941) served as the Prime Minister of Greece for a brief, yet critically important, period in 1941, during the tumultuous early stages of World War II. His tenure, though short, was marked by the escalating geopolitical tensions that ultimately led to the German invasion of Greece.

Koryzis assumed the premiership on January 29, 1941. This pivotal appointment followed the unexpected death of his predecessor, the long-standing dictator Ioannis Metaxas, who succumbed to throat cancer. Metaxas had led the "4th of August Regime," a totalitarian government that had governed Greece since 1936. Koryzis, prior to this highest political office, had established a distinguished career, notably serving as the Governor of the Bank of Greece. His experience in financial and administrative affairs provided him with a strong background, though he inherited a nation facing immense military and political pressures.

A significant divergence in policy marked Koryzis's premiership. His predecessor, Ioannis Metaxas, had steadfastly declined direct military assistance offered by the British. Metaxas's rationale was rooted in a delicate geopolitical calculation: he feared that accepting such aid could provide Nazi Germany with a pretext for direct intervention in support of their Italian allies, who had already invaded Greece in October 1940, initiating the Greco-Italian War. This conflict saw the smaller Greek forces surprisingly resist and even push back the Italian invasion, gaining international admiration and briefly delaying Hitler's plans in the Balkans.

In contrast to Metaxas's cautious approach, Alexandros Koryzis agreed to the dispatch of "W Force." This substantial British and Dominion military contingent comprised two infantry divisions and an armoured brigade. This decision, a key strategic shift, aimed to bolster Greek defenses against the anticipated German assault and secure the Allied position in the Eastern Mediterranean. The arrival of "W Force" was part of Operation Lustre, a British effort to support Greece, which was seen as a vital strategic asset to prevent Axis control of the region and protect the Allied flank.

Despite holding the title of Prime Minister, Koryzis's effective power was significantly constrained. The Greek government at the time was largely controlled by King George II, who wielded considerable influence, especially after the centralized power structure established under the Metaxas dictatorship. It was under Koryzis's nominal leadership that Greece faced the full brunt of the German invasion, known as Operation Marita, which commenced on April 6, 1941. This overwhelming assault, launched by Hitler to secure his southern flank before the invasion of the Soviet Union, saw German forces rapidly advance through Greece, despite fierce Greek and Allied resistance.

The situation quickly deteriorated for Greece. Less than two weeks after the invasion began, on April 18, 1941, as formidable German troops marched inexorably towards Athens and the city was placed under martial law, Alexandros Koryzis tragically committed suicide by shooting himself. This act underscored the immense pressure and despair that gripped the Greek leadership as their nation faced imminent occupation. To prevent mass panic and maintain some semblance of order in the capital during this critical moment, the official cause of his death was initially reported as a heart attack. This deliberate misdirection aimed to preserve morale and prevent further chaos amidst the unfolding military disaster.

Alexandros Koryzis hailed from the picturesque small island of Poros in Greece. Today, his legacy is preserved on his home island, where a museum dedicated to his life and significant contributions to Greek history stands as a testament to his service during one of the nation's most challenging periods.

Frequently Asked Questions about Alexandros Koryzis

Who was Alexandros Koryzis?

Alexandros Koryzis was a prominent Greek figure who briefly served as the Prime Minister of Greece in 1941, during World War II. He was also a distinguished Governor of the Bank of Greece before his premiership.

When did Alexandros Koryzis become Prime Minister?

He became Prime Minister on January 29, 1941, following the death of the then-dictator, Ioannis Metaxas.

What significant decision did Koryzis make regarding foreign aid?

Unlike his predecessor, Koryzis agreed to the dispatch of "W Force," a significant British and Dominion military contingent, to help defend Greece against the anticipated German invasion. This marked a crucial shift in Greek foreign policy during the war.

What was the "W Force"?

The "W Force" was a British and Dominion military contingent consisting of two infantry divisions and an armoured brigade, sent to Greece in 1941 as part of Operation Lustre to aid in its defense against the Axis powers.

How did Alexandros Koryzis die?

Alexandros Koryzis committed suicide by shooting himself on April 18, 1941, as German forces approached Athens. His death was initially reported as a heart attack to avoid public panic during the crisis.

Why was the cause of his death initially misreported?

The Greek government at the time reported his death as a heart attack to prevent mass panic and maintain morale in Athens, which was under martial law and on the verge of occupation by German forces.

Where can one learn more about Alexandros Koryzis?

A museum dedicated to his life and contributions is located on his home island of Poros, Greece.