Ioannis Kapodistrias was one of the most emblematic figures of modern Greek history. With integrity, insight and endless devotion to his country, he dedicated his life to building an independent and strong Greek state. He was not just a diplomat or a political leader – he was a visionary who believed that Greece could stand on a par with the advanced states of his time. With a sense of duty and total dedication to his work, he laid the foundations for the political, social and economic reconstruction of the country, creating a model of governance based on justice, welfare and development.

From diplomacy to governance

Born in Corfu in 1776, Kapodistrias was distinguished from an early age for his intelligence and education. He studied medicine, but quickly rose to prominence in politics and diplomacy, gaining the respect of both his countrymen and the powerful figures of Europe. As Russia’s Foreign Minister, he played a key role in shaping the international balance of power, helping to create a new map for Europe after the Napoleonic Wars.

However, his heart was always set on Greece. When he was offered the chance to take over the country’s government, he left behind a brilliant international career and accepted the challenge of leading a state that had just emerged from its revolutionary struggle. This choice shows his self-sacrifice and dedication to the Greek vision.

The great reforms

As the first Governor of Greece, he took over the government at an extremely difficult time. The country had just emerged from a long and devastating war, society was divided and infrastructure was almost non-existent. Kapodistrias, however, was not deterred by the difficulties. Instead, he devoted all his energies to the titanic task of reconstruction.

He made radical changes to the public administration, creating the first institutions that gave coherence to the Greek state function. At the same time, he recognised the importance of education and established schools, laying the foundations for a new generation of citizens who could contribute to the country’s development. The reorganisation of the economy was also a priority for him. He strengthened agricultural production, sought to organise the national economy on the basis of sustainability and growth, and established a more structured system of taxation and economic management.

The introduction of the potato: An ingenious ploy

One of the most famous stories associated with Kapodistrias is the introduction of the potato in Greece. When the Greeks initially showed reluctance to adopt it, he came up with a clever trick: he stored the potatoes in a public place under strict guard, creating the impression that they were valuable. The inhabitants, intrigued, began to steal them, with the result that the potato quickly spread and became a staple of their diet. This small but strategic action shows his insight and ability to apply innovative solutions to solve social problems.

His tragic murder and his legacy

The bold changes that Kapodistrias attempted were not accepted by everyone. Opposition from the local aristocracy and certain interests came to a head, leading to his tragic assassination on 27 September 1831 in Nafplio. Although his life ended violently, his work laid the foundations for modern Greece. Kapodistrias paid with his life for his dedication to Greece, but his legacy remains indelible.

History has vindicated him. Ioannis Kapodistrias went down in history as a selfless leader who dedicated himself to the idea of a free, strong and independent Greece. His name will always remain synonymous with political honesty, strategic thinking and true patriotism. His reforms, his political ethos and his indelible mark on the creation of the Greek state make Kapodistrias one of the most important personalities in the history of our nation.