The Role of Cyprus in the Arabi Revolt and the Resulting Egyptian Campaign of 1882

This paper looks at British policy in the Mediterranean in the late nineteenth century, and the importance and role of Cyprus as an island under British administration at that time. Specifically, it aims to investigate the neglected role of Cyprus during the Arabi revolt and ensuing Egyptian campaign in 1882. In order to highlight this less-examined aspect, it examines the reasons why Cyprus had not been transformed into a suitable naval station by 1882. It also looks at the effect of the lack of military facilities on the island’s use, and the politicians’ perception of the usefulness of Cyprus during these events in Egypt, vis-à-vis the reaction of the British and Cyprus press.