Discover the history of Cyprus Part 9: - British Rule in Cyprus (1878–1960) – Empire, Nationalism, and the Road to Independence

British Rule in Cyprus – Colonial Legacy and National Awakening

In 1878, Cyprus entered a new era under British administration, marking the beginning of nearly a century of colonial rule. This period transformed the island's infrastructure, legal system, and political aspirations—ultimately laying the foundations for its independence and modern identity.

The British Take Control

Following the Russo-Turkish War, the Ottoman Empire agreed to lease Cyprus to Britain in exchange for protection against Russia. Although technically still Ottoman territory until 1914, the island was administered as a British possession from the start. Britain formally annexed Cyprus in 1914 during World War I, and it became a Crown colony in 1925.

The British introduced modern governance, Western-style education, and an English-language legal system. Roads, railways, and postal services were improved, and Nicosia became a British administrative hub.

Rising Nationalist Sentiments

Despite improvements in infrastructure, many Cypriots—especially the Greek Orthodox majority—harbored resentment. Inspired by nationalist movements in Greece, calls for Enosis (union with Greece) grew stronger, especially after World War II. Meanwhile, the Turkish Cypriot minority began expressing fears of marginalisation and favoored continued British rule or Taksim (partition).

The tension between the two communities was largely political in origin but began to take on ethnic dimensions during this period.

The EOKA Campaign

By the 1950s, the demand for Enosis intensified. In 1955, a Greek Cypriot nationalist guerrilla group, EOKA (Ethniki Organosis Kyprion Agoniston), launched an armed campaign against British rule. Led by George Grivas, EOKA targeted military and government installations.

The British responded with emergency laws, arrests, and executions. This period of violence also saw the emergence of Turkish Cypriot resistance, with the formation of TMT (Turkish Resistance Organization), further complicating the situation.

Steps Toward Independence

After years of unrest and failed negotiations, Britain, Greece, and Turkey reached the Zurich-London Agreements in 1959. These agreements established Cyprus as an independent republic, to be shared by both Greek and Turkish Cypriots under a complex power-sharing arrangement.

On 16 August 1960, Cyprus officially gained its independence. Archbishop Makarios III, a key figure in the independence movement, became the first president of the Republic of Cyprus.

Conclusion

British rule in Cyprus was a period of rapid modernization and escalating nationalism. Though it brought infrastructure and administrative reform, it also intensified ethnic divisions and set the stage for the island’s turbulent post-independence era.

Next up in the series:👉 The Republic of Cyprus (1960–1974 BC)