EOKA Meaning and
Definition
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EOKA, an acronym for Ethniki Organosi Kyprion Agoniston (Εθνική Οργάνωση Κυπρίων Αγωνιστών), is a Greek Cypriot nationalist organization that was active from 1955 to 1959 in the struggle for the independence of Cyprus from British colonial rule. EOKA's primary objective was to achieve enosis, the union of Cyprus with Greece, due to the majority Greek population on the island.
EOKA was known for its guerrilla warfare tactics and carried out a series of attacks against British colonial authorities, military personnel, and infrastructure in Cyprus during its existence. The organization's members, known as EOKA fighters, aimed to undermine British control and assert the rights of the Greek Cypriot population through acts of insurgency. They employed strategies such as bombings, targeted assassinations, and sabotage, often focusing on economically significant targets to disrupt British administration.
EOKA's activities led to a significant escalation of tensions in Cyprus and a subsequent violent counter-response by the British military. This eventually resulted in a significant breakdown of relationships between the Greek and Turkish Cypriot communities and contributed to the broader intercommunal conflicts on the island.
After years of armed struggle and political negotiations, Cyprus gained independence from Britain in 1960. EOKA's influence waned following independence, and most of its leadership joined the political process on the island. Today, EOKA is largely recognized as a historical organization that played a crucial role in Cyprus's struggle for independence.
Common Misspellings for EOKA
Etymology of EOKA
The word "EOKA" has its origins in the Greek language and is an acronym for Ethniki Organosis Kyprion Agoniston, which translates to "National Organisation of Cypriot Fighters". EOKA was a Greek Cypriot nationalist guerrilla organization that sought the end of British colonial rule and the unification of Cyprus with Greece during the 1950s.
