CURRANTS OLIVES & COTTON

<p>Languishing in the azure Mediterranean Sea the picturesque Ionian Isles seem an unlikely venue for vast international trade and the spread of Mexican dollars.</p><p> </p><p>Undoubtedly early links with Venice helped but the influences of France Turkey Britain and ultimately Greece have left indelible marks.</p><p> </p><p>In 1814 occupying French forces abandoned Corfu. Soon after the Napoleonic collapse Ionia found itself hosting a 'protector' a Lord High Commissioner courtesy of Great Britain.</p><p> </p><p>Currants and olive oil provided an economic backbone. Currency was mainly coin comprising silver dollars and Mexican and Maria Theresa thalers.</p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p>