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Sten Mk III 9 mm sub machine gun used by National Organisation of Cypriot Fighters (EOKA)
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Sten Mk III 9 mm sub machine gun used by National Organisation of Cypriot Fighters (EOKA)
5929118 Sten Mk III 9 mm sub machine gun used by National Organisation of Cypriot Fighters (EOKA), c.1955(sub machine gun, Sten, 9 mm Mk III) by Greek School, (19th century); National Army Museum, London; (add.info.: Sten Mk III 9 mm sub machine gun used by National Organisation of Cypriot Fighters (EOKA), Cyprus, 1955 (c).
In the early 1950s the majority Greek-Cypriot population of Cyprus had been demanding Enosis, or union with Greece. In 1954 Britain ruled this out as it planned to transfer its Suez military headquarters to Cyprus. This led Colonel George GrivasAs EOKA (National Organisation of Cypriot Fighters) to begin a guerrilla campaign aimed at driving the British out. By mid-1956 there were 17, 000 British servicemen in Cyprus assisting the police with the maintenance of security.
The Mk 3 Sten was introduced in 1943 but produced in far fewer numbers than the Mk 2. Many Stens were supplied to guerrilla forces in Europe during World War Two (1939-1945), including Greece. This particular weapon used by EOKA insurgents is marked in Greek A LONTSA but its meaning is not clear. It has a bullet hole in the barrel jacket sustained during its capture.); eNational Army Museum; Greek, out of copyright
Media ID 23265216
© National Army Museum / Bridgeman Images
Guerrilla Warfare Tactics Terrorism
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EDITORS COMMENTS
The photograph captures a historical artifact that holds immense significance in the struggle for independence. The Sten Mk III 9 mm sub machine gun, used by the National Organisation of Cypriot Fighters (EOKA) during the mid-1950s, stands as a symbol of resistance and determination. During this period, Cyprus was engulfed in political turmoil as the Greek-Cypriot population sought Enosis, or union with Greece. However, Britain's refusal to grant their demands led to Colonel George Grivas forming EOKA and initiating a guerrilla campaign against British rule. Amidst this backdrop, the Sten Mk III emerged as a weapon of choice for EOKA insurgents. Introduced in 1943 but produced in limited quantities compared to its predecessor, it played a crucial role in various European guerrilla forces during World War Two. This particular Sten bears markings in Greek - "A LONTSA" - whose meaning remains unclear. Its barrel jacket also carries evidence of its capture through an apparent bullet hole. Such details add layers of intrigue and history to this powerful image. As we gaze upon this print today, we are reminded of the sacrifices made by those who fought for freedom on the island nation of Cyprus. It serves as a testament to their bravery and unwavering commitment towards achieving self-determination amidst challenging circumstances.
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