Consumption patterns in Malta 1919-1939 : a study of British dependency and Maltese consumption

Abstract

I first got the idea for this dissertation while studying abroad on an Erasmus+ programme at Bath Spa University in Bath, United Kingdom. In one of our units, we discussed the effects on and of consumption in England throughout the eighteenth century, using personal inventories and stories of contemporaries to understand the creation of new demands. At the same time, the philosophy behind the activity of consumption was also covered and thus in a limited sense, I tried to apply this to Malta at a time which could be compared to England in the eighteenth century. However, after exploring Maltese consumption during the interwar period, another point becomes very clear: a cultural shift can be seen that is duly reflected in people’s money spending habits that can be attributed to the British influence being cast over the island as a result of their naval and military presence. Therefore what I shall attempt to show through this dissertation is that Malta’s dependency on the British was not solely an economic matter, but in consequence it changed the lifestyle of many on the island. I could not have completed this dissertation without the help of Professor Dominic Fenech and his much needed direction. Also, I would like to show my gratitude to the dedicated staff that do so much valuable work at both the National Library of Malta in Valletta and the University Library. I would also like to acknowledge the staff at Bath Spa University for being so welcoming to foreign students and for being an inspiration for my work. Last but not least, a big thank you goes out to my friend Kyle Piccinino who has been a great and unwavering help throughout the whole process.