Theodora Fotopoulou | KU Leuven (original) (raw)

Papers by Theodora Fotopoulou

Research paper thumbnail of Memories and Experiences of the Greek Diaspora in Belgium in the 1980s - 1995; following the Integration of Greece into the European Economic Community

This master thesis examines the migration wave of Greeks into the Kingdom of Belgium between the ... more This master thesis examines the migration wave of Greeks into the Kingdom of Belgium between the years 1980 and 1995, after Greece’s integration into the European Economic Community in 1981. With the use of the push-and-pull theory as framework, this thesis offers a qualitative analysis of the reasons why Greek individuals chose to emigrate to Belgium and not another country, as well as the results of this life changing decision over the course of their life. Moreover, the study discusses the differences with the Greek migration wave of miners that pre-existed in Belgium during 1955 and the 1970s, as well as the daily social contacts with the local population, other Greek individuals, and international expats. Using interviews, first- hand information was acquired from ten Greek expatriates who were part of this wave and agreed to participate in this study. The results of this research are gathered through the memories and experiences of the participating individuals and thus, it can showcase that education and working opportunities abroad, political, and social instability in their origin country, as well as curiosity and general wanderlust, are all factors that convinced quite a number of Greeks to migrate to Belgium for a better well-being and fulfilling life. Moreover, this study showcases general aspects of their daily lifestyle, customs, traditions and contacts with their foreign neighbors and diaspora communities as well as with Greece and the people left behind.

Drafts by Theodora Fotopoulou

Research paper thumbnail of Diplomacy and Foreign Relations during the Greek War of Independence 1821 - 1830

This essay aims to present the historical background and timeline of one of Europe’s most vital r... more This essay aims to present the historical background and timeline of one of Europe’s most vital revolutions, the Greek War of Independence, as well as focusing on foreign relations and further diplomatic practices that took place between Europe’s most powerful states. Primarily, the shifting of opinions between the Great Powers that resulted in conflicts, led interests and military backing all played a vital part in this ordeal. Moreover, this essay will showcase how public opinion and later diplomacy affected the actions of said powers and helped orchestrate the results leading to the creation of an autonomous and independent Greek State.
I just wish to note that the timing of the topic of this essay is quite meaningful and symbolic for my person, as this year (2021) marks the 200 years of the beginning of the Greek Revolution, therefore I hope this work serves as a small benchmark for further study of this significant event of the 19th century.

Research paper thumbnail of Perspectives on Global History - Advancements and Shortcomings

Perspectives on Global History-Advancements and Shortcomings "Most historians are global historia... more Perspectives on Global History-Advancements and Shortcomings "Most historians are global historians; they just don't know it yet"-Christopher A. Bayly

Research paper thumbnail of Greek - Turkish relations and the role of the major European nations during the Interwar period

How was peace attempted between the two states through the League of Nations and what were the re... more How was peace attempted between the two states through the League of Nations and what were the results?

Research paper thumbnail of Memories and Experiences of the Greek Diaspora in Belgium in the 1980s - 1995; following the Integration of Greece into the European Economic Community

This master thesis examines the migration wave of Greeks into the Kingdom of Belgium between the ... more This master thesis examines the migration wave of Greeks into the Kingdom of Belgium between the years 1980 and 1995, after Greece’s integration into the European Economic Community in 1981. With the use of the push-and-pull theory as framework, this thesis offers a qualitative analysis of the reasons why Greek individuals chose to emigrate to Belgium and not another country, as well as the results of this life changing decision over the course of their life. Moreover, the study discusses the differences with the Greek migration wave of miners that pre-existed in Belgium during 1955 and the 1970s, as well as the daily social contacts with the local population, other Greek individuals, and international expats. Using interviews, first- hand information was acquired from ten Greek expatriates who were part of this wave and agreed to participate in this study. The results of this research are gathered through the memories and experiences of the participating individuals and thus, it can showcase that education and working opportunities abroad, political, and social instability in their origin country, as well as curiosity and general wanderlust, are all factors that convinced quite a number of Greeks to migrate to Belgium for a better well-being and fulfilling life. Moreover, this study showcases general aspects of their daily lifestyle, customs, traditions and contacts with their foreign neighbors and diaspora communities as well as with Greece and the people left behind.

Research paper thumbnail of Diplomacy and Foreign Relations during the Greek War of Independence 1821 - 1830

This essay aims to present the historical background and timeline of one of Europe’s most vital r... more This essay aims to present the historical background and timeline of one of Europe’s most vital revolutions, the Greek War of Independence, as well as focusing on foreign relations and further diplomatic practices that took place between Europe’s most powerful states. Primarily, the shifting of opinions between the Great Powers that resulted in conflicts, led interests and military backing all played a vital part in this ordeal. Moreover, this essay will showcase how public opinion and later diplomacy affected the actions of said powers and helped orchestrate the results leading to the creation of an autonomous and independent Greek State.
I just wish to note that the timing of the topic of this essay is quite meaningful and symbolic for my person, as this year (2021) marks the 200 years of the beginning of the Greek Revolution, therefore I hope this work serves as a small benchmark for further study of this significant event of the 19th century.

Research paper thumbnail of Perspectives on Global History - Advancements and Shortcomings

Perspectives on Global History-Advancements and Shortcomings "Most historians are global historia... more Perspectives on Global History-Advancements and Shortcomings "Most historians are global historians; they just don't know it yet"-Christopher A. Bayly

Research paper thumbnail of Greek - Turkish relations and the role of the major European nations during the Interwar period

How was peace attempted between the two states through the League of Nations and what were the re... more How was peace attempted between the two states through the League of Nations and what were the results?