Bozzaris

Bozzaris, MARCOS; Greek patriot, was born about 1788 at Suli, in the mountains of Epirus. His youth was spent amid the din of arms. In 1803 he was forced to retreat to the Ionian Isles by Ali Pasha (q.v.), who had nearly exterminated the Suliotes. In 1820 Ypsilanti summoned the Greeks to insurrection, and war broke out between Ali Pasha and the sultan. On learning the news, Bozzaris put himself at the head of some 800 expatriated Suliotes, and passed over into Epirus. Ali found means to secure their services against the common enemy, and Bozzaris gained several victories, and on Ali's death continued the war successfully. Shortly after, Prince Mavrocordato landed at Missolonghi with a body of disciplined troops, and being joined by Bozzaris, he engaged the Turks at Petta, 16th July 1822, but was compelled to retire to Missolonghi, which place Bozzaris skilfully defended. In 1823 a Turco-Albanian army of 13,000 men descended from the north of Epirus. Bozzaris advanced swiftly at the head of 1200 men, and on 20th August reached Karpenisi, where the van of the Turkish army, 4000 strong, was encamped. At night, 350 Suliotes burst in upon their startled foes, who were routed with great slaughter; but Bozzaris fell while leading on his men to the final attack.