The last harrowing event
of recent times suffered by the Cretans was the invasion and occupation of
their island by German forces under General Student in the Second World
War. The courage and heroism of the Cretans in their resistance to what
was a brutal occupation is well-documented. Since the war, Crete has
enjoyed peace and prosperity. While tourism has contributed in part, Crete
takes pride in the economic success of its agricultural production. It is,
for example, Greece's main exporter of olive oil and producer of tomatoes,
while its fruit and wine are generally judged to be excellent.
For more information on
the Minoans and their other sites on the island, there are many excellent
publications on sale; and a visit to the museum in Heraklion would give an
idea of the extent of creative activity.