Archbishop Makarios III, born Michail Christodoulou Mouskos, was a pivotal figure in Cyprus’s 20th-century history. As the first President of the Republic of Cyprus, he navigated the island through turbulent political waters, balancing Greek Cypriot aspirations with the complexities of intercommunal relations. Throughout his tenure, Makarios faced numerous challenges, including multiple assassination attempts that underscored the volatile political climate of the time.
Early Life and Rise to Power
Born on August 13, 1913, in the village of Panayia in Paphos, Makarios rose from humble beginnings to become a prominent religious and political leader. Educated in Cyprus and abroad, he was elected Archbishop of the Church of Cyprus in 1950. His position as both a religious and political leader made him a central figure in the Greek Cypriot struggle for self-determination, particularly during the British colonial era. In 1960, following Cyprus’s independence from Britain, Makarios became the first President of the newly established Republic of Cyprus.
Assassination Attempts
Throughout his presidency, Makarios survived several assassination attempts, reflecting the intense political pressures and divisions within Cyprus.
March 8, 1970 Helicopter Attack
One of the most notable attempts occurred on March 8, 1970, when Makarios was traveling by helicopter from the Archbishop’s Palace to Machairas Monastery. As the helicopter took off, it came under automatic gunfire from individuals positioned on the roof of the Pancyprian Gymnasium. The pilot was injured but managed to land the helicopter safely. Makarios emerged unscathed from the incident, which was later linked to the National Front, a group opposed to his policies. Six individuals, including three police officers, were arrested in connection with the attack.
July 15, 1974 Coup Attempt
Perhaps the most significant threat to Makarios’s life came during the coup attempt on July 15, 1974. The Cypriot National Guard, with support from the Greek junta, stormed the Presidential Palace in Nicosia with the intent to assassinate Makarios and overthrow his government. Despite the assault, Makarios narrowly escaped death, thanks to the quick actions of his presidential guard. He fled the palace and sought refuge in Paphos, from where he was evacuated by British forces and taken to London. The coup led to the temporary collapse of his administration and set the stage for the subsequent Turkish invasion of Cyprus.
1972-1973 Ecclesiastical Coup Attempt
In addition to these direct assassination attempts, Makarios faced internal challenges from within the Church of Cyprus. Between 1972 and 1973, three bishops-Gennadios of Paphos, Anthemos of Kition, and Kyprianos of Kyrenia-initiated an ecclesiastical coup, questioning Makarios’s dual role as both Archbishop and President. They argued that holding secular office was against Church canons. Makarios responded by accusing the bishops of conspiring with external forces, including the Greek junta and EOKA-B, a paramilitary organization. The crisis culminated in the bishops being defrocked by a Pan-Orthodox Synod in July 1973, although they resurfaced during the 1974 coup attempt.
Legacy and Impact
Makarios’s ability to survive multiple assassination attempts and a coup attempt solidified his status as a resilient and influential leader. His leadership during the 1974 crisis, particularly his escape and subsequent return to power, demonstrated his commitment to Cyprus’s sovereignty and independence. However, the events also highlighted the deep divisions within Cypriot society and the complexities of balancing Greek Cypriot aspirations with the realities of intercommunal relations.
In the years following his death in 1977, Makarios’s legacy continued to shape Cypriot politics. He is remembered as a symbol of resistance and resilience, embodying the struggles and aspirations of the Greek Cypriot community. His life and the assassination attempts against him serve as a testament to the turbulent history of Cyprus during the 20th century.