Today, 59 years ago, Malta gained independence after 164 years of British rule. For this reason, every year on 21st September, Malta enjoys a public holiday and a flurry of celebrations. Today, we’re taking a look back at what happened on 21st September 1964.

A look back

Malta has always been an attractive acquisition for its long list of rulers, being smack in the middle of the Med. After multiple rulers, the last to govern the islands were the British for 164 years, who left an undeniable mark on Malta, her culture, history and customs.

After World War II was over, the island showed willingness and determination to stand on its own two feet. Britain granted Malta self-governance after the naval island showed great loyalty and bravery during the turbulent times, and this only further grew the desire to gain independence.

Britain initially came over to Malta after the islands asked for help to expel the French. The British Empire eventually gained full sovereignty of Malta and Gozo in 1814 and later became an important mid-way stop between Gibraltar and the Suez Canal. Later, Malta went on to become a naval base during WWII.

The referendum

Self-governance was restored in 1947, after which the island was basically split into two: one side favouring full integration with the UK, while the other half was pushing for “self-determination” as enjoyed by Canada, Australia and New Zealand.

On 11^th and 12^th February 1956, a referendum on UK integration was held, with 77 per cent of voters agreeing with the proposal. However, a boycott by the Nationalist Party and the Church meant that only 59.1 per cent of the electorate had actually voted, rendering the result inconclusive.

The proposals stated that Malta would have three seats in the House of Commons and wages and standard of living would be raised. The UK Parliament would have control over foreign affairs, direct taxation and defence of the island, whereas the Maltese Parliament would have responsibility over public life, the position of the Church and education.

21^st September 1964

None of the proposals were implemented and Malta gained Independence on 21^st September 1964. The islands then became a Republic 10 years later. Today, 59 years ago, the then-Prime Minister of Malta George Borg Olivier was present, among various other politicians, to accept a document that granted the islands Independence.

A commemoration

On the 25^th anniversary of Malta’s Independence, a bronze and marble monument was inaugurated at the entrance of the Mall in Floriana. The 8.5m female figure (representing Malta) can be seen striding forward into the unknown, carrying the Maltese flag, liberating herself from the shackles of the past (the bands below the statue).

 Roberta Metsola/Facebook, Salvatore Muscat via Nostalgia Malta/Facebook, EPP Group in the European Parliament/Facebook