Cyprus gained independence from British rule after a protracted struggle involving various political and ethnic factions on the island. The independence movement was primarily led by the Greek Cypriots, who sought unification with Greece, a concept known as 'Enosis.' However, the Turkish Cypriot minority opposed this idea, leading to a complex political scenario. Negotiations began in the 1950s, culminating in international discussions that included representatives from Greece, Turkey, and the UK.

The climax of these negotiations was the signing of the Treaty of Establishment on August 16, where Cyprus was officially declared a republic. The treaty set the framework for the new independent state, including provisions for communal representation and political rights for both ethnic groups. Archbishop Makarios III, a leading figure in the independence movement, became the first President of Cyprus. Although the independence was seen as a victory, the agreement also laid the groundwork for future conflicts, as tensions between the Greek and Turkish communities simmered beneath the surface.

The initial period of independence was marked by optimism for peace and cooperation. Nevertheless, differing national aspirations soon created friction, leading to civil unrest and, eventually, the Turkish invasion of Cyprus in 1974. This event starkly highlighted the challenges of coexistence in a bi-communal society and the impact of colonial legacies.