On August 16, 1960, Cyprus gained its independence from the United Kingdom.

The United States recognized the new nation and established an embassy in Nicosia on August 16, 1960, with L. Douglas Heck as Chargé d'Affaires ad interim.

Diplomatic relations between the United States and Cyprus have been continuous since that time.

One ambassador, Rodger P. Davies, was assassinated by a sniper while at his post in 1974.

The United States does not recognize the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, proclaimed November 15, 1983, by Turkey.