Il-hajja fil-qosor : siltiet minn "Mikiel Anton Vassalli u Zminijietu"

Abstract

Article highlighting the biography of Maltese linguist Mikiel Anton Vassalli. He lived in the most turbulent years of Maltese History, from the end of the rule of the Knights, French Occupation and finally under British rule. Vassalli's popularity varies being a Francophile during the time of the Knights, with the hope for a better future, then turning against the French during their occupation. The British did not trust him, and in fact he was exiled for 20 years before finally returning to Malta. Through his connections he was appointed as head of the Maltese Department however in 1825 the post was abolished and he managed to get by providing translations and Maltese lessons. Vassalli died a pauper in 1829 and was not allowed to be buried in consacrated ground.