The former British colony of Cyprus became independent in 1960. At that time 570000 people (77% Greek and 18,3% Turkish Cypriote) were living on the island. In 1974 Turkey intervened militarilly and occupied 37 % of the island, after the Greek government had tried to topple president Makarios by way of a coup détat. A following population exchange seperated Turkish and Greek Cypriots completely. The demarcation line cannot be crossed by members of either group. However, the "Turkish Republic of Cyprus", which was proclaimed in 1983, has not been acknowledged internationally. This fact isolates Northern Cpyrus in every possible way and tightens the bonds with Turkey. While more and more Turkish Cypriots are leaving the island, a growing number of Turks is moving to Cyprus.