The Greek government subsequently pointed an accusing finger at the small, but influential Greek Communist Party, together with assorted anarchists, for tarnishing Greece's international image. It was not just the American president who came under fire. I would have liked to see you in a non-governmental role. The American first lady, who can at times sound just as cynical and sanctimonious as her husband, was planting an olive tree at the time. That his wife should then be publicly told off for meddling in politics and seeking office is merely the icing on the cake.
Nations have long memories.
Washington supported the bloody crackdown against student demonstrators in 1973 by the then ruling Greek right-wing military junta, and the Greeks have not forgotten this treachery. Nor is it just the communists and anarchists who are anti-American. Hostility to Washington spans a broad spectrum of Greek society. Which brings me to the topic I wish to tackle, namely the politics of religion. Religious fervour, it seems, remains an impediment to global political stability.