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: Paperback / softback
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 initial 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 marked the beginning of a new era of migration and displacement, as individuals sought to escape the political and economic instability that followed the war. Heirs of the Greek Catastrophe delves into the lives of these individuals, exploring their experiences, struggles, and resilience in the face of adversity.

The book is divided into three parts, each focusing on a different aspect of the migration process. The first part provides an overview of the historical background and the political context that led to the 1923 Convention. It explores the complex relationship between Greece and Turkey, as well as the various factors that contributed to the war and its aftermath. The second part examines the human cost of the migration, focusing on the experiences of the individuals who were forced to leave their homes and communities. It explores the physical and emotional toll that migration takes on individuals, as well as the challenges they face in their new environments.

The third part of the book explores the legacy of the 1923 Convention and its impact on the region today. It examines the political and social consequences of the migration, as well as the efforts that have been made to address the issues that it has created. It also looks at the ways in which the migration has shaped the identities of the individuals who have been affected, and the ways in which they have adapted to their new lives.

Heirs of the Greek Catastrophe is a powerful and thought-provoking book that provides a valuable insight into the complex and multifaceted nature of migration. It is a must-read for anyone interested in the fields of anthropology, history, and migration studies.

In conclusion, Heirs of the Greek Catastrophe is a landmark work that has significantly contributed to our understanding of the migration process and its impact on individuals and communities. Its third edition, published to commemorate the centenary of the 1923 Lausanne Convention, is a testament to the enduring relevance of this classic study. By exploring the history, experiences, and legacy of the migration, this book provides a valuable contribution to our understanding of the world and the challenges that we face in the 21st century.

ISBN-13: 9781805390138