 |
Georgios ZoitakisGreek general, member of the Black Colonels junta, from 1967 to 1972.
Date of Birth: 03.03.1910
Country:  Greece |
Content:
- Early Life and Military Career
- Resistance Activities
- Post-War Career
- Role in the Junta
- Downfall and Imprisonment
- Later Years and Death
Early Life and Military Career
Georgios Zoitakis was born in Nafpaktos, Greece, in 1910. He graduated from the Hellenic Military Academy in 1932 and served in the Evzones Battalion during the Greco-Italian War.
Resistance Activities
During the German occupation of Greece, Zoitakis joined the National Republican Greek League (EDES). Following the outbreak of conflict between EDES and the communist-led ELAS in 1943, his father was killed by ELAS guerrillas. Zoitakis himself was captured by ELAS in 1944 but was released in 1945.
Post-War Career
After his release, Zoitakis continued his military education and served in various high-ranking positions, including personal adjutant to King Paul. By 1967, he had risen to the rank of Major General and was stationed in Athens.
Role in the Junta
In 1967, Zoitakis actively participated in the "Black Colonels'" coup d'état and became Deputy Minister of National Defense. After King Constantine's failed counter-coup, Zoitakis became Regent of Greece.
Downfall and Imprisonment
In 1972, Zoitakis resigned as Regent in favor of Georgios Papadopoulos, who later declared Greece a republic. After the restoration of democracy in 1974, Zoitakis was sentenced to life imprisonment for treason. He served 13 years in prison before his sentence was commuted to house arrest in 1988 due to ill health.
Later Years and Death
Zoitakis passed away in his Athens residence in 1996. He was buried in the First Cemetery of Athens. He was survived by his wife, Sofia Vourantzeri, and their daughter, Vicky.
