Constantine Levidis is known as the father of Greek journalism because of his contributions to newspapers during the 19th century. He was also an avid supporter of a constitutional monarchy in Greece.
Levidis was born in 1790. His father was a prominent writer and figure during the Age of Enlightenment. His mother also wrote many letters and was well educated. He graduated from the University of Vienna with a knowledge of many languages.
In 1832, the First Hellenic Republic was succeeded by the Kingdom of Greece and Levidis served as Councellor of Finances. He soon found himself in constant clashes with the government. He formed a newspaper at an early time in the history of Greek journalism, Elpis, which he edited bilingually. Levidis was a well-meaning patriot, but he criticized the Bavarian rule, led by Count Josef Ludwig von Armansperg.
From the first issue, Levidis fought for the establishment of a constitution for the liberated Greek state. His fierce criticism of the Bavarian rulers almost cost him his life during an assassination atempt in 1837, only a year after Elpis began publication. Publication of the newspaper was halted, but resumed again in 1844 after a constitution was adopted.
Levitis was an important figure in Greek history because he was outspoken. Just like many writers over the ages, his writing almost got him into trouble, but he used the power of speech and newspapers to voice his opinion.
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