Turkish Cypriots

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Turkish Cypriots are an ethnic group native to the island of Cyprus, primarily residing in the northern part of the island. They are descendants of Ottoman Turks who settled in Cyprus during the period of Ottoman rule from 1571 to 1878. Turkish Cypriots are predominantly Sunni Muslims and speak Cypriot Turkish, a dialect of the Turkish language.

History

The presence of Turkish Cypriots on the island dates back to the Ottoman conquest of Cyprus in 1571. During the Ottoman period, many Turks settled on the island, and the population grew significantly. The Ottoman Empire implemented a feudal system, and many Turkish soldiers and officials were granted land in Cyprus.

In 1878, Cyprus was leased to the British Empire, although it remained nominally under Ottoman sovereignty until 1914, when it was annexed by Britain. During the British colonial period, tensions between the Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot communities began to rise, particularly over the issue of Enosis, the movement for the union of Cyprus with Greece.

Intercommunal Violence and Division

The period of Cyprus Emergency from 1955 to 1959 saw increased violence between Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot communities. The EOKA campaign for Enosis led to the formation of the Turkish Cypriot resistance group TMT (Türk Mukavemet Teşkilatı), which sought to protect Turkish Cypriot interests and counter EOKA activities.

In 1960, Cyprus gained independence from Britain, and the Republic of Cyprus was established with a power-sharing arrangement between Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots. However, intercommunal violence erupted in 1963, leading to the withdrawal of Turkish Cypriots from the government and the establishment of Turkish Cypriot enclaves.

Turkish Invasion and Division of Cyprus

In 1974, a coup d'état by Greek Cypriot nationalists aiming for Enosis prompted a Turkish invasion of Cyprus. As a result, the island was effectively divided, with Turkish Cypriots residing in the northern part and Greek Cypriots in the southern part. In 1983, the Turkish Cypriot community declared the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC), which is recognized only by Turkey.

Culture

Turkish Cypriot culture is a blend of Turkish and Cypriot influences. Traditional music, dance, and cuisine reflect this unique heritage. Popular dishes include Kebabs, Meze, and Hellim (known as Halloumi in Greek).

Demographics

As of the latest estimates, there are approximately 300,000 Turkish Cypriots living in Northern Cyprus. Additionally, there is a significant Turkish Cypriot diaspora, particularly in Turkey, the United Kingdom, and Australia.

Related Pages

• Cyprus
• Ottoman Empire
• Republic of Cyprus
• Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus
• Enosis
• EOKA
• TMT (Turkish Cypriot organization)
• Cypriot Turkish