Health care for the wounded combatants during the Greek Revolution of 1821

Abstract

This paper presents a historical review of the health situation during the Greek War of Independence. The efforts to support and organise the Revolution of 1821 included organisation of structures, finding financial resources, collecting ammunition and mental preparation. However, there was no consideration concerning the medical, nursing and pharmaceutical care for the wounded combatants. The Greeks realised there is lack of medical equipment and staff right from the beginning of the Revolution. They had to nurse not only the casualties but also the people who suffered from an epidemic or other diseases. Many people who had studied Philosophy, Astronomy and other sciences also practised Medicine. However, their knowledge was limited to a naturalistic perception of the reality in the medical field. There were also quack doctors and charlatans offering health aid based on their experience. The health conditions were awful due to the constant, unexpected transportation of the military forces, the siege of forts and cities, the forced transportation of a large number of people from the countryside to fortified city centres, the constant battles, the lack of drinking water, food and medicines. Philhellenism, volunteerism, women’s contribution, financial support from the rich and strong will to be free helped in ameliorating the conditions.