The 1974 Military Coup in Cyprus: Archbishop Makarios Flees

Name: The 1974 Military Coup in Cyprus: Archbishop Makarios Flees
Start: 1913-07-15
Location: Unspecified

The 1974 Military Coup in Cyprus: A Turning Point

The 1974 Military Coup in Cyprus was one of the most significant events in the history of the Mediterranean island, profoundly affecting its political landscape for decades to come. This event was driven by tensions between the Greek Cypriot majority and the Turkish Cypriot minority, fueled by aspirations of Enosis, or union with Greece. On July 15, 1974, a coup orchestrated by the Greek military junta led to the overthrow of President and Archbishop Makarios III, marking the beginning of chaos in Cyprus.

Background to the Coup: Makarios III's Leadership

Archbishop Makarios III was a pivotal figure in Cypriot politics, serving as both President and the spiritual leader of the Greek Orthodox Church. His efforts to maintain independence for Cyprus in the face of growing pressure for unification with Greece led to dissatisfaction among nationalist factions. The Greek military junta, aiming to control Cyprus and support the coup, saw him as an obstacle that needed removal.

The Coup Unfolds

On that fateful morning, the coup was initiated by a group of Greek officers and their local supporters who effectively seized control of strategic points in the capital, Nicosia. Makarios III was caught unaware, and in the face of overwhelming military power, he was forced to flee to avoid capture. Amidst the chaos and shootings that erupted across the city, Makarios sought refuge abroad, first in London and then in New York.

The Aftermath of the Coup

The military coup had immediate repercussions, leading to a Turkish invasion of Cyprus just days later on July 20, 1974, which was purportedly aimed at safeguarding the Turkish Cypriots. This invasion resulted in the partition of the island, a geopolitical crisis that remains unresolved to this day.

The Division of Cyprus

Following the Turkish military intervention, Cyprus was effectively divided into two parts, with the northern third under Turkish control and the southern two-thirds remaining predominantly Greek Cypriot. This division led to the establishment of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) in 1983, which is recognized only by Turkey.

International Reactions

The events of 1974 invoked strong international reactions, with the United Nations calling for peacekeeping forces to restore order. Multiple UN resolutions have since attempted to address the ongoing dispute, highlighting the complex relationship between Greece, Turkey, and the island of Cyprus.

Fun Fact

Archbishop Makarios III’s Interesting Fact

Did you know that Archbishop Makarios III was the first President of the Republic of Cyprus? He was also the only head of state in the world to hold both a political and religious title simultaneously, which underscored his unique position and influence in Cypriot society.