Greek Junta's Coup in Cyprus

July 15th, 1974

July 15th, 1974

Greek Junta's Coup in Cyprus
How Long Ago?

50 years, 8 months ago

Location

Nicosia, Cyprus

Category

Politics & Government

War/Conflict

Cyprus Conflict

People
  • Georgios Papadopoulos
  • Makarios III
  • Nikos Sampson
Links & References
Tags

Greek Junta's Coup in Cyprus

In Nicosia, a coup d'état was launched by Greek junta-sponsored nationalists against President Makarios III, leading to the elevation of Nikos Sampson as the new president of Cyprus. Supported by Athens, the coup aimed at uniting Cyprus with Greece, reflecting the broader political tensions on the island. This sudden takeover would instigate a series of events that would alter Cyprus's political landscape and relations with Turkey.

Makarios III was ousted by nationalist forces.

Nikos Sampson became the new president.

The coup triggered a Turkish military invasion.

Cyprus remains divided to this day.

What Happened?

On July 15, 1974, the political landscape of Cyprus was dramatically altered when Greek junta-sponsored nationalists perpetrated a coup d'état against President Makarios III. Makarios, who had been in power since Cyprus gained independence from Britain in 1960, was a proponent of a non-aligned policy and faced opposition from those favoring union with Greece, known as Enosis. The coup was meticulously planned by the National Front, a pro-Greek organization, and was supported by the military junta that was ruling Greece at the time. Troops moved into Nicosia early in the morning, quickly taking control of key government buildings and broadcasting the announcement of Makarios's overthrow.Nikos Sampson, a noted figure in the nationalist movement, was appointed as the new president following the coup. This sudden shift in power escalated tensions across the island, especially with the Turkish Cypriots, who feared for their safety and autonomy. The coup was met with immediate backlash from Turkey, which argued it had the right to intervene to protect its interests and fellow Turkish Cypriots. This resulted in Turkey launching a military invasion of Cyprus later that month, leading to the division of the island into the predominantly Greek south and the Turkish-controlled north, laying the groundwork for the ongoing conflict and division that persists to this day.

Why Does it Matter?

The coup in Cyprus is notably significant as it set off a chain reaction that led to the Turkish invasion and the eventual division of Cyprus into two parts. This partition is not just a physical separation but a reflection of deep-rooted ethnic grievances and conflict ideologies that have defined Cypriot history. The consequent geopolitical developments on the island drew in both Greece and Turkey, making Cyprus a focal point of regional tensions and demonstrating the broader Cold War dynamics as external powers took sides.

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