Product Description

New Preface takes the story up to the minute, reflecting the first tentative steps towards reunification since the collapse of the Annan Plan in 2004. This book presents lively but comprehensive modern history from British acquisition in 1878 to the present day. It draws on new source material including vivid interviews with leading actors.In the troubled island of Cyprus, the national interests and rivalries of Greece and Turkey still collide, the population remains divided between the Greek and Turkish communities and the country is still a cat's paw of outside powers - especially the USA and the now resurgent Russia - as it has been since the acquisition of the island by Britain in 1878. These are problems that have been brought into sharp focus by Cyprus' entry into the European Union.William Mallinson's book is a fast-moving and incisive narrative history which portrays Cyprus as a continuing source of international tension in the Mediterranean and beyond. It features the latest source material from the recently released National Archive, vivid interviews with key players, even reports which raise awkward and embarrassing questions. His critical eye uncovers the underlying story of American and British involvement in the island's affairs, first as a key territory in Cold War politics with its close proximity to the Middle East and Asia and now as a key asset in the 'war on terror'.

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #146746 in Books
• Published on: 2008-10-01
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Paperback
• 256 pages

Review
"'This is an extremely lively and controversial book. [William Mallinson's] views deserve to be read with respect and to be debated.' Alan Sked, Senior Lecturer in International History, London School of Economics 'Mallinson's is an important book that will be a great service to those who are interested in the Cyprus problem.' Tam Dalyell, former Father of the House of Commons"

About the Author
William Mallinson is a Lecturer at the Ionian University, Corfu, and Professor of Diplomatic History and head of the International Relations Department at New York College in Athens. He is a former diplomat and the author of Public Lies and Private Truths. Alan Sked is a Senior Lecturer in International History, London School of Economics.

Customer Reviews

Well researched and balanced approach on a contentious topic.
It is difficult to find such an objective book about Cyprus. The author based this work mostly on his own private research and drawing on his experience as a British diplomat, he presents a comprehensive picture about the modern history and politics of Cyprus. His language is clear and his arguments are pointed. I enjoyed it thoroughly.

Not for the General Reader
I went on holiday to Cyprus this year and decided that I wanted to know something about the history and background of the divided island. So I bought this book and sadly I have been very disappointed. This is a book by a historian written for other historians. For that audience it may be very good but for the general reader it's hopeless. It assumes that you already know the story and then proceeds to fill in obscure details. There must be a book that just tells the story but I haven't found it yet.