By Order of Napoleon: The Taking of Malta

About By Order of Napoleon: The Taking of Malta

Delve into the pivotal moments of Malta's history with "By Order of Napoleon: The Taking of Malta" by Joe Scicluna. This compelling non-fiction work offers a unique chronological compilation of Bonaparte’s specific orders issued during and immediately after the French invasion of Malta in 1798. Readers will gain direct insight into Napoleon's strategic directives, from the capture of key locations like Gozo, Mdina, St. Paul, and Valletta, to the intricate instructions concerning the treatment of the Knights, the Maltese populace, and the clergy.

Joe Scicluna meticulously presents the radical reforms Napoleon intended for Malta, encompassing health and education initiatives designed to align the island with the new revolutionary ideals of the French Republic. The book details the abolition of nobility and slavery, the reorganization of the clergy and the redefinition of its influence, and even the controversial removal of precious silver and items from St. John’s Co-Cathedral in Valletta. Far from offering judgment or praise, this essential Melitensia title provides direct access to primary source documents, allowing readers to form their own perspective on these momentous events that irrevocably altered the course of Maltese history.

Key Details

• Author: Joe Scicluna
• Publisher: Self-Published
• Format: Paperback, 164 pages
• Language: English
• Published: 2018
• ISBN: 9781986977906

Order from BookClub.com.mt — Malta and Gozo's online bookstore.