This historical essay explores Greece in the 1990s. It seeks to illuminate vital aspects of the Greek phenomenon using themes such as politics, institutions, society, ideology, foreign policy, geography and culture. Founding principles, the inspiration of the founding fathers, are juxtaposed with indigenous norms and practices, and the outcome of the tension between opposing forces are assessed. This commentary on issues raised about Greece in the last decade of the 20th century challenges the established notions and stereotypes that disfigure the perceptions of country.