Heirs of the Greek Catastrophe: The Social Life of Asia Minor Refugees in Piraeus

Heirs of the Greek Catastrophe is a landmark work in anthropology and migration studies, published in 1989 and updated to mark the centenary of the 1923 Lausanne Convention. It explores history and identity themes.

Format: Hardback
Length: 336 pages
Publication date: 12 May 2023
Publisher: Berghahn Books

Heirs of the Greek Catastrophe is a groundbreaking work in the fields of anthropology and migration studies, and it has remained in high demand since its first publication in 1989. To commemorate the centenary of the 1923 Lausanne Convention, which resulted in the movement of approximately 1.5 million individuals between Greece and Turkey following their war, the third edition of this classic study has been published. This edition includes updated material, including a new preface, an afterword by Ayhan Aktar, and a map of the broader region. The new preface provides the historical context in which the original research took place, assesses the book's innovative aspects, and explores the central themes of history and identity that run throughout.

The 1923 Lausanne Convention, which took place after the Greek War of Independence, was a significant event that had far-reaching consequences for the region. It resulted in the division of territory and the displacement of millions of people, creating a complex web of political, social, and economic implications. Heirs of the Greek Catastrophe delves into the aftermath of this convention, examining the experiences of the individuals who were affected by it. The book explores the various ways in which these individuals coped with the displacement, the challenges they faced, and the ways in which they rebuilt their lives.

One of the key themes of the book is the impact of displacement on identity. The authors argue that displacement can create a sense of loss and fragmentation, as individuals are forced to leave their homes, communities, and cultural heritage behind. However, it can also lead to the formation of new identities and communities, as individuals come together to share common experiences and struggles. The book provides a rich and nuanced account of the ways in which displacement has shaped the identities of the individuals who were affected by it.

Another important theme of the book is the role of history in shaping the outcomes of displacement. The authors argue that historical events, such as wars, colonization, and political instability, can create conditions that make displacement more likely and severe. They also explore the ways in which historical memory and narratives can influence the way in which individuals perceive and respond to displacement. The book provides a valuable insight into the complex relationship between history and displacement, and how it can shape the future.

Heirs of the Greek Catastrophe is a highly informative and thought-provoking book that will be of interest to scholars and researchers in the fields of anthropology, migration studies, and history. It provides a comprehensive and nuanced account of the experiences of the individuals who were affected by the 1923 Lausanne Convention and the ways in which displacement has shaped their lives and identities. The book is a valuable contribution to the literature on this important topic and will be of great use to students and professionals alike.

Dimension: 216 x 140 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781800739888