Cyprus, an island in the Eastern Mediterranean, achieved its independence from United Kingdom colonial rule on August 16, 1960. Here is a detailed overview of this significant historical event:
Historical Context
- Colonial Period: Cyprus was a British colony from 1878 when the United Kingdom took over its administration from the Ottoman Empire. It was officially annexed by Britain in 1914 at the start of World War I.
- Ethnic Composition: The island has a diverse ethnic composition with Greek Cypriots (80%) and Turkish Cypriots (18%) being the major communities.
- EOKA and the Struggle for Independence: The push for independence was largely led by the Greek Cypriot organization EOKA (Ethniki Organosis Kyprion Agoniston or National Organization of Cypriot Fighters), which began its armed struggle against British rule in 1955.
Path to Independence
- London-Zürich Agreements: Following years of conflict, negotiations led to the London-Zürich Agreements in February 1959. These agreements, involving representatives from Greece, Turkey, the UK, and Cyprus, laid the groundwork for Cyprus's independence.
- Constitution: A constitution was drafted, providing for a power-sharing arrangement between Greek and Turkish Cypriots, with the establishment of a bi-communal state.
- Independence Day: Cyprus officially became independent on August 16, 1960. Archbishop Makarios III was elected as the first President of Cyprus.
Aftermath
- Intercommunal Violence: Despite the agreements, tensions between the Greek and Turkish communities continued, leading to intercommunal violence in the early 1960s.
- 1963-1964 Crisis: A significant escalation occurred in December 1963 when proposals to amend the constitution were rejected by Turkish Cypriots, leading to widespread conflict.
- 1974 Coup and Invasion: In July 1974, a coup d'état was staged by the Greek military junta, aiming for Enosis (union with Greece). This event prompted the Turkey to intervene militarily, leading to the partition of the island into the Republic of Cyprus and the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus.
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