Political science professor Alexander Billinis will examine the often overlooked role of Greek cotton merchants in the American Civil War in an exclusive online lecture on Thursday, July 6 at 7 p.m.
This insightful presentation, part of the renowned Greek History and Culture Seminars hosted by the Melbourne Greek Community, aims to highlight the significant influence of Greek entrepreneurs on the wartime economic landscape.
With a particular focus on the Greek merchant navy, Mr. Billinis has conducted extensive research into the historical contributions of Greek cotton merchants.
His findings reveal the critical role these merchants played in the global cotton trade during the tumultuous Civil War period.
When eleven Southern states seceded from the American Federation in 1861, the South faced formidable challenges. However, armed with dominant cotton production and the institution of plantation slavery, the South sought support from cotton-dependent countries like Britain and France.
Greek companies, operating in Britain, Egypt, the Mediterranean, India and even the United States (including New Orleans), became key players in the cotton trade.
Although relatively small in the American market, Greek cotton merchants exerted significant influence in the booming Egyptian cotton market.
In anticipation of the war, many Greek cotton merchants moved from the south to Alexandria, resulting in a four-fold increase in Egyptian cotton production.
The strategic foresight and commercial intelligence demonstrated by these Greek merchants had a tangible impact on the course of the war. Despite disruptions to British and French industries and soaring cotton prices, alternative supplies from Egypt, India and Brazil prevented the complete collapse of textile mills.
As a result, the Confederacy failed to gain international recognition and succumbed to the Union’s superior military, economic, and financial power.
Alexander Billinis, a respected professor of political science at Clemson University, is an accomplished writer specializing in the Greek merchant marine, the Greek diaspora, the Balkans, and Byzantium. Holder of a Juris Doctorate in international law from American University and a master’s degree in history, Mr. Billinis brings a multidisciplinary approach to his research.
The Melbourne Greek Community, a leading organization dedicated to the promotion and preservation of Greek history, culture and heritage in Australia, hosts the Greek History and Culture Seminars. These seminars serve as a platform for engaging discussions and lectures, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of Greek history and culture.
The conference will be broadcast live on Facebook and YouTube, allowing a wider audience to participate in this informative event.
For more information, please contact the Melbourne Greek Community on +61 3 9662 2722 or email info@greekcommunity.com.au.
