Markos Botsaris (1790 - August 9, 1823)

 From Souli in Epirus, Markos Botsaris was a Greek Fighter and General, Captain of the Souliotes and a Hero of the Greek War of Independence.

At the outbreak of the Greek Revolution of 1821, Botsaris eagerly led the Souliotes into battle against the Ottomans.

Markos Botsaris distinguished himself by his courage, tenacity and skill as a Leader in the fighting throughout Epirus and Sterea Ellada primarily and fought bravely in the First Siege of Messolonghi, as well as in many subsequent battles.

He died on this date in 1823 at the Battle of Karpenissi, his army of some 400 men against a joint 5000 force made up of Albanians and Turks.

Markos Botsaris is one of the most prominent and admired figures of the Greek Revolution and was buried with full honours in Messolonghi.

When the Ottomans re-captured the City 3 years later in 1826, the Turks and Albanians desecrated his grave.

Hellenic Patriotism