Maurocordatos

Maurocordatos, the name of a Greek family which has had great influence on the history of their country. Alexander (1637-1709) studied medicine in Italy, and in 1681 became interpreter to the Porte, and had great influence in the Turkish Empire. Nicholas, son of above, was Hospodar of Wallachia and Moldavia. Constant, son of above, was Hospodar of Moldavia, and abolished serfdom. Alexander (1791-1865) was born in Constantinople, and played a great part in the Greek struggle for independence. He prepared the Declaration of Independence, and drew up the plan of government, and became President of the Executive Body. In 1822 he saved the Peloponnesus. He was a good worker, and a patriot, but was unpopular through his liking for England and his dislike of Russia. Under King Otho he was minister and ambassador, and was for a time Prime Minister at the beginning of the Crimean War.