The Cyprus Emergency: The Divided Island 1955-1974

Explore the gripping history of the Cyprus Emergency between 1955 and 1974, which resulted in a divided island and a lasting impact on its people. Discover the struggles, conflicts, and political complexities that shaped this troubled era.

The Cyprus Emergency, also known as the "Cyprus Conflict," refers to a series of ethnically driven conflicts that occurred on the island of Cyprus between 1955 and 1974. Tensions between the Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots, alongside external interference from Greece and Turkey, led to a prolonged period of violence, political upheaval, and, ultimately, the division of the island.

The Long-Term Roots of Conflict

The roots of the Cyprus Emergency can be traced back to historical, cultural, and political factors that created an environment of division and conflict. With a predominantly Greek Cypriot population and a significant Turkish Cypriot minority, the island's demographics became a catalyst for tension.

The Cyprus Emergency: The Divided Island, 1955–1974

by Carl Sferrazza Anthony(Kindle Edition)

4.2 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	6503 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	324 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

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Political movements advocating for either Enosis (union with Greece) or Taksim (division of the island) further exacerbated the deep-seated divisions. These movements attracted support from Greece and Turkey, two powerful external players determined to protect the interests of their respective ethnic communities.

The Birth of EOKA and TMT

In 1955, the Greek Cypriot paramilitary organization called the National Organization of Cypriot Fighters, commonly known as EOKA, was established. Led by Colonel George Grivas, this militant group launched a campaign of guerrilla warfare against British colonial rule, aiming to achieve Enosis.

In response, the Turkish Cypriot community formed its own paramilitary organization, the Turkish Resistance Organization, or TMT. The emergence of these armed groups escalated tensions to new heights, as both sides resorted to violence to further their political goals.

The Brutality and Impact

The Cyprus Emergency was marked by numerous acts of violence, including bombings, assassinations, and communal violence between communities. The British colonial authorities struggled to maintain control and peace on the island, while attempts at reconciliation between the Greek and Turkish Cypriot communities faltered.

The violence and political instability had a profound impact on Cyprus. Thousands of people were displaced from their homes, and communities became increasingly segregated along ethnic lines. Trust between the two communities was shattered, leaving scars that are still felt today.

External Interference and Failed Solutions

Greece and Turkey, linked by historical ties and cultural affinity with the Greek and Turkish Cypriots, respectively, played prominent roles during the Cyprus Emergency. Both countries supported their respective communities, further fueling the divide.

Efforts by the United Nations and other international bodies to broker peace and find a solution to the conflict were largely unsuccessful. The situation became even more complex with the military intervention of Turkey in 1974, which resulted in the de facto division of Cyprus into the Greek Cypriot-controlled south and Turkish Cypriot-controlled north.

The Legacy of the Cyprus Emergency

The effects of the Cyprus Emergency are still deeply felt today. The division of the island, with the United Nations Buffer Zone separating the two sides, remains unresolved. Reconciliation efforts, though ongoing, face significant challenges due to the scars left by decades of violence and mistrust.

The impact on individuals and families separated by the division of the island cannot be overstated. Many are still searching for answers, attempting to reconnect with loved ones, and longing for a resolution that reunites their homeland.

The Cyprus Emergency was a tumultuous period in the island's history, with far-reaching consequences that continue to shape the region. Understanding the complexities, origins, and impacts of this conflict is crucial for fostering empathy and working towards a peaceful resolution that reunites the divided island.

By delving into the historical context and examining the various players involved, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the challenges faced by the people of Cyprus. Only through dialogue, understanding, and a commitment to peace can the wounds inflicted during the Cyprus Emergency begin to heal.

The Cyprus Emergency: The Divided Island, 1955–1974

by Carl Sferrazza Anthony(Kindle Edition)

4.2 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	6503 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	324 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

The British faced two serious problems the first, the Greek Cypriots desire for Enosis and second, the intense rivalry and antipathy between the Greek and Turkish communities.In 1955 the former resulted in a bitter EOKA terrorist campaign led by Colonel George Grivas. This resulted in the deaths of over 100 British servicemen. Nicosias Murder Mile was the scene of many shootings. The Governor Field Marshal Harding narrowly escaped assassination in his residence. The next phase was the Turkish Governments military intervention in 1974 to prevent what they saw as the Greek takeover. In a bloody invasion which saw widespread ethnic cleansing and displacement of communities, the Island was divided into two sectors policed by the United Nations. This exists today, as do the British Sovereign Base areas at Dhekalia and Atrokiri/Episkopi.This book describes the most troubled years of this beautiful island which is so well known to British servicemen, their families and vacationers.