The Greek Islands.

The history of the Greek Islands is, broadly, the history of Greece, and it is that history which follows. It is worth remembering, however, that the last of the islands were only integrated into the Greek nation after World War II and that the Greek state itself has been in existence for less than two hundred years. In the context of well over five thousand years of civilization on the islands, and of constant trade between them and the wider world, it is not surprising that individual islands have their own unique histories, not always conforming to the overall pattern. What is consistent is that the position of the Greek islands at the crossroads of Europe, Asia and Africa has long presented them with unique opportunities and dangers, and made them a prize much fought over. In the areas of politics, philosophy, literature, science and art, Greece has influenced Western society more than any other nation in history; and islanders have played a full part in that.