The history of Cyprus dates back to ancient times, with evidence of human habitation as early as the Neolithic period. The island has been influenced by various civilizations, including the Phoenicians, Greeks, and Romans. In 330 AD, it became part of the Byzantine Empire, which lasted for centuries. In the 16th century, Cyprus was conquered by the Ottoman Empire, leading to significant cultural and religious changes. In 1878, the British took control of the island, and it became a crown colony in 1925. After a long struggle for independence, Cyprus gained its freedom in 1960, but tensions between the Greek and Turkish communities led to division in 1974.