GREEK SUBJECTS IN ODESSA, 1879: CHARACTERISTICS OF THE COMMUNITY IN THE LIGHT OF CENSUS DATA

The article discusses the primary data from the 1879 General Census of the Kingdom of Greece that concern the Greeks of Odessa, who resided in the city both permanently and temporarily. The analysis of the census records allows the adequate reconstruction of the characteristics of the Greek community, which in 1879 displayed a transitional migratory type. Social institutions (especially, the family) and everyday practices demonstrate a similar migratory character. The inclusion of the Greeks of Odessa in almost all strata and professional corporations assumed new aspects and marked a noticeable “proletarization”. Concerning the ethno-cultural specifics and sustainability of ethnic identity, it is found that the Greek community of Odessa shows the relatively high level of literacy and education as well as the absolute predominance of Greek as a native language