Turkish Cypriots

Turkish Cypriots are the ethnically Turkish people who live in Cyprus, predominantly in the northern part of the island. They share cultural, linguistic, and historical ties with Turkey. After Cyprus gained independence from British rule in 1960, tensions between Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots led to conflicts and division. In 1974, Turkey invaded northern Cyprus following a Greek-inspired coup, resulting in the island’s de facto division. Today, Turkish Cypriots govern the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, recognized only by Turkey, while Greek Cypriots control the south. The community seeks peaceful reunification and maintains a distinct cultural identity within Cyprus.