1798–1800 — Revolution, Reform and Rebellion
Introduction
The French occupation of Malta (1798–1800) was one of the shortest yet most transformative periods in Maltese history. In June 1798, seized Malta from the Knights of St John during his expedition to Egypt.
Although French rule lasted just over two years, it introduced sweeping political, social, and economic reforms while also triggering a widespread Maltese rebellion.
The French Invasion (June 1798)
In June 1798, a French fleet carrying over 30,000 troops arrived in Malta. The Knights of St John, weakened and divided, offered limited resistance and surrendered the islands within days.
The last Grand Master, Ferdinand von Hompesch, capitulated, ending nearly 270 years of Hospitaller rule.
Napoleon remained in Malta for only a few days, during which he reorganised the administration before continuing his campaign toward Egypt.
Reforms under French Rule
The French introduced radical reforms inspired by the ideals of the French Revolution:
- Abolition of feudal privileges and nobility
- Abolition of slavery
- Suppression of the Inquisition
- Introduction of free public education
- Creation of new administrative structures
These reforms modernised Malta but also disrupted long-standing social and religious institutions.
Religious Conflict and Rising Tensions
Despite initial acceptance, Maltese opposition quickly grew. French policies included:
- Confiscation of Church property
- Restrictions on religious institutions
- Sale of valuable church assets
These actions, combined with economic hardship and unpaid wages, created widespread resentment among the population.
The Maltese Rebellion (September 1798)
On 2 September 1798, a popular uprising began in Mdina and quickly spread across Malta. Maltese insurgents forced the French to retreat into the fortified cities of Valletta and the Grand Harbour.
The rebellion was led by local figures such as Emmanuele Vitale and Canon Saverio Caruana, and marked one of the earliest expressions of Maltese national resistance.
The Great Siege (1798–1800)
Following the rebellion, the French garrison was besieged for nearly two years. The Maltese insurgents, supported by the British Royal Navy, blockaded Valletta and surrounding fortifications.
Conditions inside the French-held areas deteriorated severely due to famine and disease.
On 4 September 1800, the French forces surrendered after running out of supplies.
Transition to British Rule
Following the French surrender, Malta came under British protection. Maltese leaders formally requested British sovereignty, marking the beginning of a new era in Maltese history.
This transition would eventually lead to Malta becoming a key British naval base in the Mediterranean.
Legacy of French Malta
- Introduction of modern legal and administrative reforms
- Abolition of feudalism and slavery
- First expressions of Maltese national resistance
- Beginning of Malta’s transition to British rule