Fifty-nine years ago, on September 21, 1964, Malta gained independence from the United Kingdom.
Malta has always been strategically important in the Mediterranean Sea. In 1530, the Knights of St John took control of the island, succeeded by France and then the United Kingdom.
In 1942, George VI, King of the United Kingdom, awarded Malta and its citizens the George Cross for their bravery during the Second World War. Malta was the first British Commonwealth country to receive the bravery award, which is usually given to individuals. The George Cross has featured in the flag of Malta since 1943.
In 1942, the United Kingdom also promised to grant the island full independence. This did not happen until 1964, however, and Malta was still under the British crown. Malta became a Republic in 1974 and the British troops left the country for good in 1979.
Maltese usually celebrate this holiday by participating in festivals and other cultural activities and by eating typical local dishes.
Even if you are not in Malta, you can still embrace the spirit of the Independence Day by practising your interpreting skills with Maltese speeches in the Speech Repository!
Happy Jum l-Indipendenza to all Maltese!