Greece achieved its independence from the Ottoman Empire in 1829. During the second half of the 19th century and the first half of the 20th century, it gradually added neighboring islands and territories with Greek-speaking populations. Following the defeat of communist rebels in 1949, Greece joined NATO in 1952. A military dictatorship, which in 1967 had suspended many political liberties and forced the king to flee the country, was itself overthrown seven years later. The government plans to privatize some leading state enterprises.
Tourism is a key industry, providing a large portion of GDP and foreign exchange earnings.
Further restructuring of the economy and the reduction of unemployment remain major challenges.