[kabar]

Hanson provides anecdotal impressions that may or may not be accurate. American tourism has been down throughout the world after 9/11. Having lived in Athens for three years in the mid-nineties, I take exception to Hanson's characterization that Greeks are anti-American. The socialist, PASOK dominated government is anti-American, but on a personal level, Americans are welcomed and not harassed during their travels around Greece.

Much of the official anti-Americanism stems from the US support (with perhaps CIA involvement) of the Greek junta that took over the country in 1967 and ruled until 1974 when the colonels were overthrown. A revolt by the students on November 17th, 1973 by the students at Athens Polytechnic University was brutually put down by the military. It is no accident that the Greek terrorist group that has killed a number of Americans among others is named November 17th or that the students show up annually on that date to protest in front of the US Embassy.

[Elkiejg]

but on a personal level, Americans are welcomed and not harassed during their travels around Greece. Much of the official anti-Americanism stems from the US support (with perhaps CIA involvement) of the Greek junta that took over the country in 1967 and ruled until 1974 when the colonels were overthrown. A revolt by the students on November 17th, 1973 by the students at Athens Polytechnic University was brutually put down by the military. It is no accident that the Greek terrorist group that has killed a number of Americans among others is named November 17th or that the students show up annually on that date to protest in front of the US Embassy.

Excellent background info. We've been to Greece several times since 1992 - husband's work for the Greek transit - and found the Greeks extremely hospitable. We were primarily in Athens, but even when visiting the countryside and islands, they were most accommodating. I did however, witness one example of an "ugly American" attitude in a shop where the "american" was complaining about something and the owner told them they were a guests in his country and should behave appropriately!! Couldn't fault his evaluation. After the ugly american left, I felt compelled to apologize for my countryman and try to convince him we're not all like that -- he was most gracious and we have a wonderful discussion which ended with him closing his shop and he and his wife treated me to some refreshment and a walk through the Plaka to show me some areas that aren't known to many tourists. It's amazing the change in attitude when you express genuine interest in their country and culture. I like the Greeks and their country.