Navarino and naval intervention for Greek independence

Admiral Edward Codrington's British, French, and Russian fleet prepared to enter Navarino Bay in October 1827. The powers were not formally at war with the Ottomans, but their crews filled shot tubs and went to action stations before entering the anchorage. The Ottoman force included Egyptian, Turkish, and Tunisian vessels. Events beyond the commanders' immediate control could turn the attempted mediation into a battle. The Greek revolt had begun in March 1821 and gained much of the Peloponnese, but the revolutionary government depended heavily on foreign money and assistance. Popular enthusiasm for national liberation abroad had not produced equally enthusiastic governments, making international recognition a major diplomatic concern.