The 1970s through 2000s were momentous times for some 240,000 Greek Americans living in Chicagoland. After decades of working to establish themselves in the U.S., the fruits of their labors were becoming apparent. Greeks had become the highest educated and second wealthiest ethnic group in the U.S.
It was a time of progress, promise, assimilation, ethnic pride, and accomplishment. In Chicago, Greek-Americans owned countless restaurants and stores, as well as many other businesses of all types and sizes. They excelled in medicine, law, government, academics, and the sciences. Churches and organizations were integral to Greek-American society. It is noteworthy that this era gave birth to two massive Chicago-based community projects, the National Hellenic Museum, and the Greek American Rehabilitation and Care Centre.
John Psiharis and Elaine Thomopoulos, co-founders of Greek-American Community Services and the Greek-American Nursing Home Committee, join forces as co-authors, to chronicle Chicago’s Greek community during this pivotal time in its history. Pictures and ephemera add to this story as do extensive listings of business owners, professionals, politicians, academics, artists, and others of the era. Biographies of a number of individuals and organizations that were influential in the community at this time are also included. The book will be released in 2025.