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An in-depth look at the conflicts in Cyprus during the mid-twentieth century. The UK has been involved in Cyprus for over 125 years. Strategically placed in the Eastern Mediterranean, it was initially ideal for protection of the Suez Canal and more recently as a 'listening post' for the troubled Middle East and southern flank of NATO. The British faced two serious problems—the first, the Greek Cypriots' desire for Enosis, (union with Greece) 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 one hundred British servicemen. Nicosia's 'Murder Mile' was the scene of many shootings. The Governor Field Marshal Harding narrowly escaped assassination in his residence. Even British families were targeted. The next phase was the Turkish Government's 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. The Cyprus Emergency describes the most troubled years of this beautiful island which is so well known to British servicemen, their families and holiday makers.
The Cyprus Emergency details the complex and often violent conflicts that engulfed the island of Cyprus from 1955 to 1974. The book examines the intertwined issues of Greek Cypriot aspirations for Enosis (union with Greece), the deep-seated animosity between Greek and Turkish Cypriot communities, and the strategic importance of Cyprus to British interests in the Eastern Mediterranean. It chronicles the EOKA terrorist campaign led by Colonel George Grivas, which targeted British servicemen and civilians, and culminates with the Turkish military intervention in 1974, resulting in the island's division and ongoing UN policing.
The book offers a detailed historical account of the turbulent period in Cyprus, focusing on the military and political conflicts. It covers the key events from the EOKA campaign to the 1974 Turkish intervention, highlighting the strategic importance of the island to the UK and the intercommunal tensions. The narrative appears to provide a comprehensive overview for those interested in the military and political history of the region. The subject matter suggests a dense, analytical text suitable for readers with an interest in 20th-century geopolitical conflicts.
Page Count:
224
Publication Date:
2014-05-19
Publisher:
Pen & Sword Military
ISBN-10:
1844682501
ISBN-13:
9781844682508
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