The Cyprus Tribute And Geopolitics In The Levant 1875-1960: Unraveling the Intricacies of Power Dynamics

The history of Cyprus and its significance in the geopolitics of the Levant region between 1875 and 1960 paints a vivid picture of power struggles, diplomatic manoeuvres, and imperial ambitions. This article delves into the intricate web of events that shaped Cyprus and its role in the ever-changing political landscape of the Eastern Mediterranean during this tumultuous period.

A Clash of Empires: The Ottoman and British Encounters

The late 19th century witnessed a gradual decline in the Ottoman Empire's authority over its territories, and Cyprus was no exception. The island, strategically located at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and Africa, became a subject of interest for various powers aiming to exploit its geopolitical advantages.

Under a secret agreement known as the Cyprus Convention of 1878, the British Empire gained control over the administration of Cyprus while recognizing the nominal sovereignty of the Ottoman Empire. This move reflected Britain's aspirations for dominance in the Eastern Mediterranean and its ambitions to secure vital trade routes to India.

The Cyprus Tribute and Geopolitics in the Levant, 1875–1960

by Ana Lucia Araujo(1st ed. 2019 Edition, Kindle Edition)

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1539 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	350 pages

FREE

Alt Attribute: Ottoman and British encounters in Cyprus from 1875 to 1960

The Cyprus Tribute: A Matter of Financial Burden and Political Influence

One of the most significant aspects of Cyprus's history during this period was the imposition and collection of a tribute payment by the Ottoman Empire. This tribute, named the Cyprus Tribute, was first introduced in 1878 and continued until 1954, nearly eight decades.

The Cyprus Tribute offered the Ottoman Empire a consistent source of income while allowing Britain to exercise its influence over the island. However, the monetary burden it imposed on Cyprus and its inhabitants became a contentious issue, leading to widespread grievances and the emergence of nationalist movements seeking independence from both Ottoman and British rule.

Alt Attribute: Unraveling the intricacies of the Cyprus Tribute and its impact on Cyprus from 1875 to 1960

A Catalytic Force: World Wars and the Redefinition of Geopolitics

The geopolitical landscape of the Levant underwent a significant transformation during the two World Wars. The First World War marked the decline of the Ottoman Empire, leading to the establishment of the Republic of Turkey under Mustafa Kemal Atatürk. Cyprus, as a British protectorate, remained relatively unaffected during this period.

However, the Second World War brought the Eastern Mediterranean into the spotlight once again. The proximity of both Cyprus and the Levant to crucial shipping routes and natural resources made this region a critical battleground for various powers striving for dominance.

Alt Attribute: Impact of World Wars on the geopolitical dynamics of Cyprus and the Levant from 1875 to 1960

Decolonization and the Birth of a Nation

As the winds of decolonization swept across the globe, the British Empire faced mounting pressure to relinquish its hold on Cyprus. Nationalist movements gained momentum, demanding self-determination and an end to foreign rule.

In 1960, after years of negotiations, Cyprus gained independence from Britain. The establishment of the Republic of Cyprus marked a turning point in the island's history, as it sought to navigate its path in a region still grappling with power struggles and geopolitical rivalries.

Alt Attribute: The birth of Cyprus as an independent nation and its impact on the Levant region from 1875 to 1960

The Legacy of Cyprus: Lessons Learned and Ongoing Geopolitical Challenges

The history of Cyprus between 1875 and 1960 serves as a reminder of the complexities of power dynamics and the interplay of geopolitical interests in the Levant region. The legacy of this period continues to shape the political landscape of Cyprus and influences its relations with neighboring countries.

Today, Cyprus finds itself at the center of various geopolitical challenges, including disputes over territorial boundaries, offshore hydrocarbon resources, and the ongoing conflict between the Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot communities. Understanding the historical context of this small yet significant island is crucial in comprehending the intricacies of the present-day geopolitical landscape in the Eastern Mediterranean.

Alt Attribute: Unveiling the legacy of Cyprus and its ongoing geopolitical challenges in the Levant region from 1875 to 1960

The period between 1875 and 1960 witnessed a series of events that shaped Cyprus's history and its role in the ever-evolving geopolitics of the Levant region. The clash of empires, the imposition of the Cyprus Tribute, the impact of world wars, the struggle for independence, and the ongoing geopolitical challenges all contribute to the complex tapestry of this island's past.

By unraveling these intricate details and exploring the power dynamics at play, we gain a deeper understanding of the historical forces that have shaped Cyprus and continue to shape the Eastern Mediterranean today.

The Cyprus Tribute and Geopolitics in the Levant, 1875–1960

by Ana Lucia Araujo(1st ed. 2019 Edition, Kindle Edition)

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1539 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	350 pages

FREE

This book examines the history of the Cyprus Tribute, and takes a longer and broader view of the issue than previous studies. It analyses the regional context of the decision to use revenue surpluses for the repayment of debt within the framework of the Eastern Question and Ottoman bankruptcy. We see that the island was always strategically and financially overshadowed by Egypt. Scrutinising political developments in Cyprus through the prism of the tribute issue facilitates a better understanding of its considerable effect on them. The absence of any imperial role for Cyprus as a 'place d’armes’ meant that there was no imperial interest in funding the infrastructural development of the island. British policy was treasury-driven. Diana Markides analyses why it failed, and how its failure resulted in the local colonial government having to impose a deeply unpopular fiscal policy, for which there was no adequate explanation. She examines the extent to which local resistance to this policy affected not only constitutional development on the island and Anglo-Cypriot relations, but the nature of the relations between the two major communities.