The Dilessi Murders: Greek Brigands and English Hostages

by Romilly James Heald Jenkins

Introduction by Sir Brooks Richards The gripping true story of one of the first hostage crises of modern times. In 1870, while traveling in Greece, four aristocrats--three British and one Italian--were kidnapped by a notorious gang of Greek bandits. The hostages were held for ransom, but, through political meddling, negotiations were bungled. A rescue attempt also failed. Tragically, the four men were murdered by their captors, resulting in a major diplomatic upheaval. This riveting but appalling tale casts an intriguing light on the politics of early modern Greece and British foreign policy. First published in 1961, this new edition of The Dilessi Murders includes an introduction by Sir Brooks Richards, former British Ambassador to Greece. Romilly Jenkins was Professor of Modern Greek at King's College and one of the foremost contemporary scholars of Byzantine and modern Greece. 256 pp 5 1/2 x 8 1/2 4 pp b/w photos

Genres: History, Nonfiction

212 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1998

Reviews

[Nicholas Foster · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fascinating and well-researched account of an abduction and murder. The chapter 'Truth and Ethnic Truth' was ahead of its time and, like it or not, remains the touchstone for any understanding of Greek politics, whether historical or contemporary.