Famous Greek Prime Ministers

Eleftherios Venizelos was a Cretan Greek statesman and leader of the Greek national liberation movement. As prime minister of Greece for over 12 years, he implemented liberal-democratic policies, expanded Greece's territory, and modernized society. Venizelos played a crucial role in diplomatic relations with Great Powers, leading to significant territorial gains during the Balkan Wars and World War I. He faced internal conflicts, such as the National Schism, and aimed to achieve the Megali Idea. Despite defeat in the 1920 election, he continued to represent Greece in international negotiations until his death.

Antonis Samaras is a Greek politician who served as the 14th Prime Minister of Greece from 2012 to 2015. He is a member of the New Democracy party and was its president from 2009 to 2015. Samaras began his national political career as Minister of Finance in 1989 and later served as Minister of Foreign Affairs from 1989 to 1992, with a brief interruption in 1990. He also held the position of Minister of Culture in 2009. Despite a controversy in 1993, Samaras rejoined the New Democracy party in 2004 and was elected as its leader in 2009.

Alexandros Papagos was a distinguished Greek army officer who rose to the rank of Field Marshal, leading the Hellenic Army during World War II and the Greek Civil War. After his military service, he transitioned into politics, founding the nationalist Greek Rally party and serving as Prime Minister after winning the 1952 elections. Papagos' tenure was marked by significant events, such as Greece joining NATO, allowing U.S. military bases on Greek territory, and developing a strong anti-communist security apparatus. His leadership also oversaw the beginning of the Greek economic miracle and tensions with Britain and Turkey during the Cyprus Emergency.

Kyriakos Mitsotakis is a Greek politician serving as the prime minister of Greece since July 2019, with a brief interruption in May and June 2023. He has been the president of the New Democracy party since 2016 and has held various positions such as Leader of the Opposition and Minister of Administrative Reform. Mitsotakis is associated with the centre-right, advocating for economically and socially liberal policies. He has been both praised and criticized for his governance, economic measures, handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, digital transformation of public administration, LGBT rights advancements, management of the Greek economy, migration policies, corruption issues, and freedom of the press concerns.

Ioannis Metaxas was a Greek military officer and politician who served as Prime Minister of Greece from 1936 until his death in 1941. He rose through the ranks of the Hellenic Army, participating in various conflicts. Metaxas, a monarchist, opposed Prime Minister Eleftherios Venizelos and was exiled in 1917. He later entered politics, establishing the Freethinkers' Party. Metaxas became Prime Minister in 1936, instituting an authoritarian regime known as Metaxism, characterized as fascist by some scholars.

George Papandreou is an American-born Greek politician who has held various high-ranking positions in the Greek government. He served as Prime Minister of Greece from 2009 to 2011, following in the footsteps of his father and grandfather who also held the position. Papandreou has been involved in politics since the late 1980s, serving as Minister for National Education and Religious Affairs, Minister for Foreign Affairs, leader of the Panhellenic Socialist Movement (PASOK), and founding his own political party, the Movement of Democratic Socialists.

Konstantinos G. Karamanlis was a prominent Greek politician who served as Prime Minister of Greece four times and as President of the Third Hellenic Republic for two terms. His political career spanned several decades, during which he implemented significant economic and social reforms. He played a key role in the post-war Greek economic miracle, led the country through its transition to democracy after a period of military dictatorship, and oversaw Greece's entry into the European Economic Community. Karamanlis was a towering figure in Greek politics, known for his leadership and accomplishments.

Constantine Kanaris was a prominent Greek statesman and admiral known for his pivotal role in the Greek War of Independence. He demonstrated exceptional leadership and strategic skills during the conflict, earning him the status of a national hero. Kanaris played a crucial role in organizing naval forces and leading successful attacks against the Ottoman Empire, contributing significantly to the efforts of Greek independence. His dedication to the cause and military acumen solidified his reputation as a key figure in Greek history.

Kostas Karamanlis is a Greek retired politician who served as the 10th Prime Minister of Greece from 2004 to 2009. He was also president of the centre-right New Democracy party from 1997 to 2009. Karamanlis first became a member of the Hellenic Parliament in 1989 and assumed leadership of New Democracy in 1997. He led the opposition for seven years before becoming Prime Minister, winning elections in 2004 and 2007. Karamanlis resigned in 2009 due to a narrow parliamentary majority during the Greek financial crisis.

Konstantinos Mitsotakis was a Greek politician who served as the Prime Minister of Greece from 1990 to 1993. He graduated in law and economics from the University of Athens. Throughout his career, Mitsotakis was known for his strong leadership and dedication to public service. He was actively involved in Greek politics for many years, holding various positions within the government. Mitsotakis' contributions to Greek politics and his commitment to serving the country were widely recognized during his time in office.

Constantine G. Simitis is a Greek retired politician known for leading the 'Modernization' movement in Greece. He succeeded Andreas Papandreou as Prime Minister of Greece from 1996 to 2004, facing challenges from loyalists of his predecessor. During his tenure, Simitis oversaw significant achievements, including Greek entry into the Euro currency, Cypriot accession into the EU, successful completion of the Athens 2004 Summer Olympics, and various infrastructure projects. He implemented economic reforms that reduced inflation and budget deficits, leading to steady GDP growth. Despite later criticism during the Greek debt crisis, his legacy reflects strengthened reform capacity and a more 'modern' and 'European' Greece.

Georgios Kondylis was a prominent Greek figure known for his diverse roles as a general, politician, and prime minister of Greece. His nickname, "Keravnos," meaning "thunder" or "thunderbolt," reflected his strong and impactful leadership style. Throughout his professional life, Kondylis displayed a deep commitment to serving his country, demonstrating strategic prowess in military endeavors and political decision-making. His tenure as prime minister showcased his ability to navigate complex challenges and make significant contributions to Greece's governance and stability.

Charilaos Trikoupis was a prominent Greek politician who served as Prime Minister of Greece seven times from 1875 to 1895. He is known for introducing the vote of confidence in the Greek constitution and spearheading ambitious projects such as the construction of the Corinth Canal. Despite his modernization efforts, Trikoupis also faced challenges that led to the country's bankruptcy. He is widely regarded as a key figure in the foundation of modern Greece due to his significant contributions and lasting impact on the country's political landscape.