The history of this day began in 1565 when the Moslem Emperor Soliman the Magnificent decided to attack Malta to destroy the Knights of St John and the Maltese who were a big thorn in his back. He feared nobody on the sea except the Knights’ ships manned by the Maltese. One day these “pirates” kidnapped his ship containing his Harem.

So Soliman assembled the greatest armada from all over his great empire to attack Malta.

The European Christian nations of Europe believed the monstrous armada would massacre everyone existing in Malta and, though promising a lot, did not send any help. Only the Maltese, men, women and children fought on the bastions.

After two months, seeing a successful resistance, Europe sent a small support. Seeing it was a success, they organised bigger help. But by the time it arrived, the Moslems had already turned back to Turkey, with their tail between their legs.

It was 7 September, and La Valette declared 8 September, the Birth of Our Lady, as Malta’s National Day.

Then came Napoleon Bonaparte who pilfered all of Malta’s riches and sent them to France in the battleship Sensible captured by the English outside Marseilles. Napoleon left General Vaubois in Malta, who allowed the French to pilfer all, and so the Maltese revolted and alone, forced Vaubois to surrender. The last French ship left Malta on 7 September on 1900.

Then, came another cruel pilferer, the German Adolf Hitler. Malta destroyed him and Erwin Rommel and the Malta Siege ended on 8 September when Italy surrendered.

Malta was to surrender to Germany because of hunger, on 7 September 1942. But owing to the miraculous entry of the convoy of Santa Maria with the tanker OHIO and all supplies, Malta did not surrender.

So 8 September should be Malta’s National Day. Since its removal the author and Malta itself have gone to the dogs. Those who have eyes can see it all.

Joseph S. Ellul

Zurrieq