Cyprus and the First World War

Shedding light on a forgotten aspect of Cypriot history, this book explores the involvement of Cyprus during the Great War and the impact it left on British colonial rule. It examines the political, economic, social and military aspects of the war effort. Cyprus and the First World War reflects on how Cyprus, as a British colony not in control of its own affairs, had a very specific and uncommon experience of the First World War; decisions were made elsewhere, communities were forced into a struggle that was not their own and their future status and ownership of the island was likely to be affected by the outcome. Bringing together contributors from various disciplines, this volume considers numerous facets of Cyprus’ part in and contribution to the First World War and the war’s effects on the island. It also highlights the fact that, while the island saw hardly any military action, it played an important role as a rear area for recovery and training purposes, as well as a provider of supplies, while Cypriots from all communities participated in the war, in particular at the Macedonian Front, a key theatre where conflict raged for much of the war.