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Malta

Because of its geographical location, Malta has been fought over since ancient times, with its position seen as important for controlling the sea routes in the Mediterranean. However, although their islands have been fought over, the Maltese people have suffered much in conflicts that were not of their making. This has led to a curious historiography of war in Malta where the islanders, especially the elite, have often remained aloof from the wars that have shaped the history of Malta.

History

The islands have clearly been occupied since prehistoric times, with a Phoenician colony established on the main island of Malta between the 10th century and the 8th century BCE. Gradually, from around 480 BCE, Malta and the adjoining island of Gozo came under the control ...

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