DEFEATED TURK ORDERS KILLING
Greeks Capture Documents Directing Massacre in Aidin Province
The Washington Herald. Washington, D.C.
20 March 1919
Paris, March 19. - Greek delegates
have learned that the Turks recent-
ly laid plans for a wholesale mas-
sacre in the Province of Aidin,
which is largely populated by
Greeks, it was announced today.
The plans were revealed through
orders captured from the Turks.
The first, dated February 25 and
signed by the commander of the
Aidin gendarmery, reads:
"I call your attention to the at-
titude of the Greeks toward Mus-
sulmans. We must exterminate this
base, miserable nation."
Allies Take Precautions.
The order declares that money and
arms have been distributed among
well-known comitadjis for this purpose.
More is promised if the plans are car-
ried out successfully. The order con-
cludes with the instruction to "act
freely with women, regardless of their
honour."
A second order said:
"The Greeks may be expected to ex-
press openly their sentiments for
Greece. Immediately each citizen is
expected to do his duty and join in a
general massacre. Each should kill
four or five Greeks. Oral instructions
will be given as to the methods of exe-
cuting this order."
As soon as the orders were seized
allied representatives took necessary
precautions.
Chronicling America: Historic American Newspapers. Lib. of Congress.
Further reading:
The Aydin Massacre, June 1919
22 Aug 1919: Turks Massacre Greek Boy Scouts, Milwaukee Journal
