Alexandros Kassavetis (1871-1932)

Alexandros Kassavetis was a prominent figure in the political scene of Greece during the early 20th century. Born in 1871 into a merchant family in Egypt, with roots from Zagora Pilion, Kassavetis became a strong supporter of Eleftherios Venizelos and participated in the National Defense Movement in Thessaloniki in 1916-1917. As a member of the Government of National Defense, he served as Minister of Communications. Kassavetis' political career was long and successful. He was first elected as a member of parliament in 1895 and was re-elected many times until 1928, representing various areas of Greece, including Volos, Larissa, and Athens. Besides his political activity, Kassavetes was also a philanthropist and an advocate for education. In 1887, he donated a vast family estate of 27,000 acres in Almyros, Magnesia, for the establishment of an agricultural school, which later became a correctional institution (Kassavetis Prison). Kassavetis was also a founding member of the Historical and Folklore Society of Thessalians and president of the Liberal Club. He passed away in 1932 while still serving as a member of parliament, leaving behind a significant legacy in Greek political and social life. Pictured: letter from the Board of Directors of the Iraklis Gymnastic Club of Thessaloniki, dated April 8, 1917, addressed to the Minister of Communications of the National Defense, Alexandros Kassavetes. ©Iraklis New Gymnastics Club of Thessaloniki 1908.