Date of Award

Spring 5-2024

Degree Type

Thesis

Degree Name

MA History

Department

History

Advisor

Dermot Quinn, DPhil

Committee Member

Dermot Quinn, DPhil

Committee Member

Maxim Matusevich, PhD

Committee Member

Mark Molesky, PhD

Keywords

Cyprus, Greek, Invasion, Immigration, Oral History, Memory

Abstract

The 1974 occupation of Cyprus has been discussed and analyzed by government officials, political scientists and diplomatic relations experts for half a century but a substantial, documented narrative history is lacking. An oral history of those who journeyed to the United States during this time has not been collected. This paper includes interviews with members of the Greek Cypriot Community in the United States who were willing to share their stories for the purposes of documenting their experiences as part of an oral history. For the purposes of this thesis, Turkish Cypriots were not sought for participation.

In addition to documenting memories, the conversations included questions centered mainly on how the experience of being a Greek Cypriot in America shaped who they are today. When asked how/if their memories are transmitted to the next generation, the consensus was that although attempts are being made to educate within the Greek Cypriot community, the next generation of Greek Cypriot Americans are far removed from the events of 1974, making it even more important to preserve memories. Together, the voices of the people interviewed paint a picture of a Cyprus that once was, and an America that continues to provide opportunities and solace for those who seek it.

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