Cyprus: Famıne and responses under the ottoman admınıstratıon (1869-1874)

Abstract

Abstract: Famine is the dearth of food such that the needs of the people are unmet. Famine has been a constant of different regions of the world from drought, irregular rainfall, epidemic diseases, wars, rebellions etc. Cyprus has experienced famine several times. In the period studied famine occurred due to drought and irregular rainfall. In 1869, annual rainfall decreased by 1/3rd when compared to the previous year and a great drought occurred on the island. This drought resulted in a famine; people sold their furniture and farm animals. People even tried to survive through eating the roots of plants. The famine caused uprisings and lawlessness, the rate of burglary and of disease increased. As prices soared, the public became indebted to brokers with high rates of interest and their crops, houses and animals were seized. The Ottoman State devised short, middle and long term solutions, as required by the Ottoman social state. Amongst these responses were the import of grain and straw to the island from different regions, public campaigns, financial support, a delay in tax payments, the abolition of the tax on grain etc. Attempts were made to protect the farmers from the loan-sharks through various measures. Bread and seeds was distributed free to the indigent. These responses by the Ottoman State served as a model for the next administrators when a famine occurred on colonial Cyprus during British rule.