255: Greece Pt. 7 - The Invasion Ends

This episode of 'History of the Second World War' examines the final days of the German invasion of Greece in April 1941, focusing on the collapse of Allied defenses and the subsequent evacuation of British and Greek forces. Despite initial resistance and localized successes, the rapid German advance through Yugoslavia shattered the Allied strategy, forcing a retreat that quickly devolved into chaos. Greek leadership, particularly General Papagos, became increasingly pessimistic, while Prince Peter defiantly vowed to continue fighting. The Greek royal family evacuated to Crete, and the Greek forces in Albania, without clear orders, independently negotiated an armistice with the Germans to avoid surrendering to the Italians. Meanwhile, British commander Wilson and General Wavell prioritized the evacuation of British troops, with plans accelerated due to worsening conditions and Luftwaffe dominance. The evacuation, conducted at night using fast naval vessels and even civilian ships, was perilous and marked by miscommunication, overcrowding, and devastating air attacks—resulting in 2,000 deaths and the abandonment of most equipment. Around 50,000 Allied troops were evacuated, but 14,000 were left behind. The episode ends with the fall of mainland Greece, the beginning of occupation, and the looming threat of the German assault on Crete, which would become the next major chapter in the Eastern Mediterranean campaign.