The King of the Hellenes has a long and storied history in Europe. As the sovereign ruler of Greece, the position holds much prestige and influence. This article will provide an overview of the origins and duties of the King of the Hellenes.
The title King of the Hellenes dates back to the early 19th century. After Greece gained independence from the Ottoman Empire in the 1820s, the Great Powers of Europe searched for a monarch to lead the new nation. They chose Prince Otto of Bavaria to become King Otto I of Greece in 1832. He established a dynasty that would rule until 1924 when the monarchy was abolished.
The King of the Hellenes served as the head of state for the Kingdom of Greece. As a constitutional monarch, the king held formal powers such as appointing the Prime Minister and dissolving parliament. However, the king also provided unity and continuity for the Greek nation during periods of instability. His role was to be a symbol of the Greek people rather than exercising direct political authority.
