Exploring Krokodeilos Kladas: A Biography and the Conflict with the Ottoman Empire

In the tumultuous history of the Ottoman Empire’s rule over Greece, certain individuals stand out due to their unique roles and backgrounds. One such figure is Krokodeilos Kladas, whose story intertwines with the broader narrative of Albanian influx into early modern Greece and the ensuing conflicts with Ottoman authorities. This article explores the available literature on Krokodeilos Kladas, shedding light on biographical details and the wider historical context of his era.

About Krokodeilos Kladas

Krokodeilos Kladas, also known by the variations of his name such as Korkodeilos, Korkondilos, and Acrokondylos, was born in Himara, a town in northern Epirus, in the year 1425. According to Greek scholars, he was of Albanian origin (Krokodeilos Korkodeilos-Korkondilos-Acrokondylos 1425-1490). His family’s history is closely tied to the Albanian region, with references to his father, Theodoros, who emigrated with other Albanians to the Peloponnese.

Upon arriving in the Peloponnese, Kladas’ father found himself in the service of the Paleologue family, ruling lords of the region. For his services, Theodoros was granted lands in Bardounia, Mani, an area where the Arvanite element, referring to ethnic Albanians living in parts of the Peloponnese, was well-preserved until the 1821 War of Independence.

Biographies of Krokodeilos Kladas

Despite his significant role, relatively few biographies of Krokodeilos Kladas exist. One of the notable references is the work of Kosta Sathas, a prominent Greek scholar and historian. In his piece “Turkish-occupied Greece” from 1869, Sathas provides insights into the Albanian presence in Greece during the Ottoman period. Additionally, Apostolos Vakalopoulos, another distinguished historian, explores the topic in “History of New Hellenism,” detailing the complex interactions between Greeks and Albanians.

Another key source is the compilation “History of the Greek Nation” by the same Vakalopoulos, which offers a broader historical context and includes segments on individuals like Krokodeilos Kladas. Further, the collection “Greek Anecdotes” by Sathas and “Greek Soldiers in the West and the Revival of Greek Tactics” by the same author provide valuable perspectives on the era.

The Conflict with the Ottoman Empire

The primary historical context for Krokodeilos Kladas lies in his life during the late Ottoman period, specifically in the mid-to-late 15th century. One of the significant conflicts in this era was the struggle between various Greek individuals and Ottoman authorities. Kladas’ own actions within this setting are less documented, but his Albanian heritage and presence in the Ottoman-held Peloponnese suggest he was part of a larger network of Albanian communities and resistance efforts.

Recommended Books and Sources

For those interested in delving deeper into the life and times of Krokodeilos Kladas and the broader context of Albanian-Greek relations during the Ottoman empire, the following books are highly recommended:

“Turkish-occupied Greece” by Kosta Sathas (1869) - This work offers detailed accounts of the Albanian community in the Peloponnese, including those who served under Ottoman rule and those who resisted it. “History of New Hellenism, Vol. 3” by Apostolos Vakalopoulos (1968) - Vakalopoulos’ work provides comprehensive coverage of Hellenism in the Renaissance period, including critical discussions of Albanian integration and conflict with Ottoman authorities. “History of the Greek Nation, Vol. I” by Vakalopoulos (1974) - This volume offers a broad historical narrative, with sections dedicated to the Ottoman period, including key figures like Krokodeilos Kladas.

These sources not only document Krokodeilos Kladas’ role but also provide a broader historical framework that contextualizes his life and the complexities of his era.

Conclusion

The story of Krokodeilos Kladas exemplifies the intricate interplay of ethnicity, loyalty, and resistance that characterized the Ottoman period in Greece. While specific biographies of this figure remain limited, the works of historians like Kosta Sathas and Apostolos Vakalopoulos offer rich insights into his era. By exploring these works, we not only understand Krokodeilos Kladas better but also gain a deeper appreciation for the broader historical context of the Albanian-Greek relationship during the Ottoman empire.