The Vlachs of Veria and Their Identities of Conflict (1900–1949)

This article emphasizes significant historic events that influenced the ethnic group of Vlachs of Veria that resulted in the emergence of two conflicting identities, the “Graecoman Vlachs” and the “Romanized Vlachs.” The Vlachs of Veria were divided into two subgroups forming new representations of the self and the other. In the midst of radical changes such as the transition from the multicultural Ottoman Empire to the Greek state, the article will highlight the complex historical processes of major or minor importance that contributed to the division and conflicting relations between the Vlachs of Veria. The article analysis, by considering as reference points the role of education in identity construction as well as the influence of local elites: their ability to direct the views of those whom they rule and to exercise power.