Greek villages are often home to men of fine appearance and excellent manners. Interestingly, there are usually more chapels than priests. Every village must have a church or chapel, even if the village becomes deserted. Sometimes, people move to a new location for various reasons, but the chapel remains standing.
The peasants are deeply religious, and their faith is often mixed with superstition. Like in the days of St. Paul, they sometimes worship unknown gods alongside Christian beliefs. Many believe in miracles, and several images of the Holy Virgin and certain saints are thought to have miraculous powers. These beliefs form an important part of daily life and local culture The Burden of Military Service.
Greek Patriotism and Generosity
Greek patriotism is well-known and deeply rooted. Wealthy Greeks, often called the “prosperous children of this classic country,” show their generosity through public buildings and charitable institutions. Unlike some countries, these projects are usually funded by private individuals rather than the government.
Many Greek fortunes are made abroad, because Greece itself offers limited opportunities to gain wealth. Agriculture is still primitive, manufacturing is small-scale, and the mining sector is almost nonexistent. Commerce and trade are also limited due to the small population. For these reasons, ambitious Greeks often move abroad to seek success.
Greek Communities Around the World
Greeks are a migrating people, forming communities in major cities worldwide. They follow consistent business methods, practice careful money management, and show skill in trade, similar to the Jewish communities. There is even a saying that “one Greek is as good as two Jews in a bargain.”
Many Greeks start small, selling fruit, trinkets, or other goods. Over time, they expand their businesses, and some become very wealthy merchants. Greek communities thrive in London, Paris, St. Petersburg, Vienna, and especially Constantinople, where Greeks make up nearly one-third of the population. Some of the city’s richest residents belong to this community Communist Bulgaria Tour.
Greek Influence in Trade
Greek merchants dominate commerce in many regions. In Syria, Egypt, and along the African coast, they control most of the trade. In the Black Sea area, Greeks monopolize the grain trade. Across the eastern Mediterranean, from Italy to Egypt, and as far north as Budapest and Odessa, Greeks play a major role in business and trade. Their influence in commerce is remarkable, considering the small size of their homeland.
