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Cyprus is a Mediterranean island state with a rich history dating back to prehistoric times. It was a British colony until gaining independence in 1960 and joining the EU in 2004. The island has a diverse population and climate, with a majority of Greek Orthodox Christians and a Mediterranean climate. The island was invaded by Turkey in 1974, leading to tension between Greek and Turkish Cypriots. Today, Cyprus has an elected president, a House of Representatives, and a court system.
The Republic of Cyprus is an island state located in the Mediterranean Sea. Located in southern Turkey, it is one of the largest islands in the region, with a reputation as a popular tourist destination. Cyprus used to be a British colony, but gained independence in 1960, gaining Commonwealth republic status a year later. The country joined the European Union in 2004.
Cyprus dates back to prehistoric times and scientists believe that its first human presence existed on the island of Aetokremnos. From discoveries at this location, scientists have been able to deduce that the first inhabitants of the island were hunter/gatherers. Over many years, people spread across Cyprus and various civilizations and cultures emerged. The island country has been ruled by a variety of different countries at various times, including Egypt and Persia, eventually ending up in the hands of the Ottoman Empire.
In 1878 Cyprus fell under British rule. This was the result of a trade between the Ottoman Empire and Great Britain. In return for British support during the Russo-Turkish War, the Ottoman Empire gave control of the island to the British. This was not an easy and uncomplicated change, as the people of Cyprus harbored a desire to be united with Greece. Indeed, the British were only able to entice Cypriots to join the British Army by promising them this unification.
Cypriots would be dissatisfied for quite some time. It was not until the 1950s that they were able to make strides towards independence from Great Britain. In 1955, the National Organization of Cypriot Fighters waged an armed battle with Great Britain, fighting to end colonization. The struggle lasted until 1960 when Cyprus gained its independence. However, he was unsuccessful in carrying out his bid for annexation by Greece.
Turkey invaded the island in 1974 and managed to claim about a third of the island. Numerous native Cypriots were displaced by this invasion and a Turkish political presence was formed on the island. Over the years, this invasion and the subsequent transformations remained a source of tension between Greek and Turkish Cypriots. In fact, the Turks established a separate government entity, called the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus.
Today Cyprus is still independent, with a government headed by an elected president. Each president holds office for five years. It also has a House of Representatives and a Council of Ministers appointed by the president. The island has a court system which is used to deliver justice to its citizens.
For visitors to Cyprus, it is best to prepare for a Mediterranean climate. The summer months tend to be extremely hot while the winters are humid with mild temperatures usually hovering between 44 and 59 degrees Fahrenheit (15 to 59 degrees Celsius). Summers are typically dry. They are often characterized by drought conditions.
Most of the people on the island are of Greek origin. They make up about 78% of the population. About 18% of the population is Turkish. Most of the island’s citizens belong to the Autocephalous Orthodox Church of Cyprus. However, the majority of Turkish Cypriots are Muslim.
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