The Story of Malta

A small Mediterranean island becomes a meeting point of geography, trade and military history in Maturin M. Ballou's account of Malta. He approaches it as a traveler interested in how its position between continents has shaped its fortunes. Valletta's harbor, streets, churches and public library share space with the neighboring islands, prehistoric remains, farming practices and the changing role of the Knights of St. John.

Ballou moves between descriptions of places and reflections on the powers that have governed them. His discussion of Carnival recalls public celebrations, while his account of British administration examines revenue, local laws and the value of Malta as a naval station. These observations carry the judgments of a nineteenth-century visitor. Readers interested in Mediterranean history can use the book to see how one traveler connected the island's buildings and landscapes with commerce, religious institutions and imperial policy.