Dawn of an epoch, 1789-1805 [i.e. 1798-1805] : Sir A.J. Ball RN

Abstract

The purpose of this thesis is to examine the events of 1798 and the years that followed. Apart from being controversial, the period marks a watershed in Maltese history. During the years 1798-1800 Malta experienced the collapse of the Order, the swift innovations and occupations of the French and the beginning of a long period of British rule which lasted for a century and a half. This study concentrates on Captain Sir Alexander John Ball, R.N. who was the leading figure in these years of crisis and through whose exertions and interventions, the question of the retention of Malta by Britain as a base between the West and India is of crucial importance to Malta.