Why didn’t Greece join the 1877-1878 Russo-Turkish wars against the Ottoman? During the Russo-Turkish War of 1877-1878, Greece did not actively participate in the conflict despite having historical and cultural ties with the Orthodox Christian population in the Ottoman Empire, which was a major point of contention in the war. There are several reasons for Greece’s decision not to join the war:

Recent Independence:

Greece had gained its independence from the Ottoman Empire after the Greek War of Independence (1821–1829). The newly established Greek state was still in a fragile state, and its leaders were cautious about involving Greece in another war so soon after achieving independence.

Great Power Politics:

The international context played a significant role. The Great Powers of Europe, including Britain, France, and Germany, were closely monitoring the developments in the region. Greece was wary of antagonizing these powers and potentially risking their support for its territorial claims.

Diplomatic Considerations:

Greece, like other Balkan states, was mindful of the intricate balance of power in the region. Joining the war could have led to conflict not only with the Ottoman Empire but also with other neighboring states, including those aligned with the Ottomans or with different territorial ambitions.

Domestic Issues:

Greece faced internal challenges and economic difficulties in the aftermath of its war of independence. The government had to prioritize the stabilization and development of the newly established state, and engaging in a major military conflict could have undermined these efforts.

Limited Military Capacity:

Greece, as a relatively small and newly independent state, had limited military capabilities compared to major powers like Russia. Joining the war might have strained its resources and posed a significant risk to its stability.

In summary, Greece’s decision not to join the Russo-Turkish War of 1877-1878 was influenced by a combination of strategic, diplomatic, and domestic considerations. The country opted for a more cautious approach, prioritizing its own stability and development over direct involvement in the conflict.