History of Cyprus (1878–present)

The History of Cyprus from 1878 to the present day encompasses a period of significant political, social, and economic transformation. This era began with the island's cession to Great Britain under the Cyprus Convention in 1878, although nominally still under Ottoman sovereignty, and extends to the present day Republic of Cyprus.

British Administration (1878-1960)

Initially, Cyprus was administered by Britain while remaining part of the Ottoman Empire. This arrangement continued until the outbreak of World War I in 1914, when Britain annexed Cyprus. In 1925, Cyprus was declared a Crown Colony. British rule significantly impacted the island, leading to developments in infrastructure, education, and legal systems. However, it also fueled growing nationalistic aspirations among both the Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot communities. Greek Cypriots largely sought Enosis (union with Greece), while Turkish Cypriots increasingly desired to safeguard their rights and identity, often looking towards Turkey for support. The post-World War II period saw intensified calls for self-determination and independence.

Independence and Intercommunal Conflict (1960-1974)

Cyprus gained independence in 1960 under a power-sharing constitution designed to balance the interests of the Greek Cypriot (approximately 80% of the population) and Turkish Cypriot (approximately 18% of the population) communities. Archbishop Makarios III, a prominent Greek Cypriot religious and political leader, became the first President. However, the complex power-sharing arrangement proved difficult to implement, and intercommunal tensions remained high. Disputes over the implementation of the constitution and the desire of some Greek Cypriots for Enosis led to escalating violence.

Turkish Invasion and Partition (1974)

In July 1974, a coup d'état orchestrated by elements within the Greek Cypriot National Guard, supported by the Greek military junta, overthrew President Makarios. This prompted Turkey to launch a military intervention, claiming it was acting as a guarantor power under the 1960 treaties. Turkish forces occupied the northern part of the island. The invasion resulted in significant loss of life, displacement of populations, and the de facto partition of Cyprus. Greek Cypriots fled or were expelled from the north, and Turkish Cypriots moved from the south to the north.

The Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (1983-Present)

In 1983, the Turkish Cypriot administration in the north unilaterally declared independence as the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC). This entity is recognized only by Turkey. The international community, including the United Nations, considers the TRNC to be under Turkish occupation. Numerous attempts to reunify the island under UN auspices have failed.

Republic of Cyprus (1974-Present)

The Republic of Cyprus, recognized internationally as the legitimate government of the entire island, continues to administer the southern portion of Cyprus. The Republic of Cyprus joined the European Union in 2004. However, EU law is suspended in the northern part of the island. The division of Cyprus remains a significant issue in international relations and a source of ongoing tension. The economic and political differences between the two communities are substantial, further complicating reunification efforts. Ongoing negotiations aim to find a comprehensive settlement that addresses the concerns of both Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots and ensures a peaceful and prosperous future for the island.