Final answer:
Cyprus became independent from British colonial rule in 1959 after an agreement between Great Britain, Greece, and Turkey. The island has since been divided, with the north proclaiming itself as the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, recognized only by Turkey.
Step-by-step explanation:
The correct option : a
Explanation in 200 words: After the end of World War II, European colonial powers including Great Britain began to retreat from their overseas colonies. This period saw many nations gain independence, a process often influenced by geopolitical concerns during the Cold War. Cyprus, an eastern Mediterranean island nation, became the focus of such decolonization efforts. In 1959, a pivotal agreement was made involving Great Britain, Greece, and Turkey that led to the independence of Cyprus. Despite gaining sovereignty, Cyprus has faced ongoing internal division.
In 1974, a conflict erupted leading to the separation of the island along the 'Green Line', creating a divided island with Greek Cypriots in the south and Turkish Cypriots in the north. Turkish Cypriots eventually proclaimed the northern part as the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, recognized only by Turkey. The Green Line is still monitored by the United Nations. The establishment of the Republic of Cyprus as an independent nation state, separate from British colonial rule, was a significant moment in the decolonization narrative of the 20th century.