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Hellenism is the mother of western civilization.
For the last 3,500 years, the word "Ellinismos"
has been used to describe the people of Greek lineage.
Starting about 2,500 years ago, "Ellinismos" has also been used to
describe a set of values. Even though these values were
invented by the Greeks of that time, anyone could have them, whether
Greek or not. These values became the basis of our today's Western
civilization.
Hellenism , or Hellenization , is the process
by which the world adopted Greek thought, culture, and language due
primarily to the conquests of Alexander the Great (356-323 BC). The
Hellenistic period extends in history from the death of Alexander
(323 BC) to about 30 BC when the Roman Empire annexed the last major
Hellenic kingdom (Egypt) in about 30 BC.
In the last few centuries, the Greek word "Ellinismos"
was adopted by the English language (transliterated as "Hellenism",
which first appeared in 1609).
Its meanings in English derive from the Greek:
- A devotion to, or imitation of ancient
Greek thought, customs or styles.
- Greek civilization, especially as modified
in the Hellenistic period by oriental influences.
- A body of humanistic and classical ideals
associated with ancient Greece, and includes:
- Greek philosophy and reason
- The pursuit of knowledge and the arts
(theater)
- Greek language
- Greek literature
- Moderation
- Government (Democracy) and civic
responsibility
- Bodily development. (Institutions such as
the gymnasium)
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AHEPA feels part of its
mission is to create an awareness of the principles of Hellenism
to people outside the Greek-American Community. Hellenism and its
ideals, should be experienced by all and for generations to come.
AHEPA's "Tribute to Olympism"
Sculpture, that stands in Centennial Olympic Park in Atlanta, celebrates
one of our ancestors' gifts to humanity - the Olympic Games. It was given
on behalf of all Hellenes and Phil-hellenes worldwide as a token of what
Hellenism represents to mankind in celebrating the 100th Anniversary of
the modern Olympic Games. At present the AHEPA is developing a The acceptance
of the AHEPA Float into the 1999 Tournament of Roses Parade allowed Hellenism
to be viewed by a worldwide audience. The Hellenic Float carried the theme
"Music from the Acropolis" and echoed mankind's passion for
freedom and harmony.
Important issues. such as the return of
the Parthenon Marbles to Greece and debunking attempts to detract from
the accomplishments of the ancient Greeks by revisionists of history are
all part of AHEPA's crusade in the preservation of Hellenism in today's
society, These are concerns not just for Hellenes and Phil-Hellenes, but
for all citizens. AHEPA educates its members on these matters through its
symposiums, lectures, and banquets.
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