During the advance of Napoleon’s French forces into the Venetian possessions, General Gentili was sent to seize the Ionian Islands.

Thus, on June 29, 1797, Gentili's French troops landed at the port of Corfu, bringing an end to the Venetian rule of the Ionian Islands that had lasted since 1386. At the quay of the port, where an enthusiastic crowd had gathered, Bishop Chalkiopoulos Mantzaros, representing the Ionian Islanders, welcomed the general by offering him a copy of Homer’s "Odyssey," saying:

“General, on this island you will encounter a people somewhat unlearned in the sciences and arts that flourish among other nations, but do not disdain them.

Learn to appreciate them by reading this book.”

Immediately after, Gentili, following Bonaparte’s orders, issued a proclamation to all Ionian Islanders, promising among other things that:

“He will make the islands free and will ensure that the virtues of Miltiades and Themistocles immediately appear there, and Greece will rise again to her ancient prestige and glory.”

However, the initial enthusiasm of the inhabitants very quickly turned into strong discontent against the French due to the economic bleeding suffered by the residents at their hands. What especially disturbed the clergy was the French anti-clericalism.

In a short time, a dangerous anti-French sentiment began to develop, forcing General Gentili to start touring the islands, trying some persuasive (according to him) speeches to restore the original enthusiasm, declaring:

“Being a slave costs nothing, but freedom must be purchased!”

📸 Flag of the Septinsular Republic also known as the Republic of the Seven United Islands, that was established in 1800, under Ottoman suzerainity and under the protection of the Russian Empire.