Knights of Malta, 1523-1798

A chronological history of the Order of St. John recounts their resettlement on Malta, their maritime and military struggles against Ottoman corsairs including a protracted siege, and the development of their internal constitution—langues, councils, Grand Master, and hospital administration. It examines strategies of fortification and naval operations, relations with European powers and the Papacy, and the social and financial strains that produced long decline. The narrative concludes with the impact of revolutionary confiscations, diplomatic pressures, and the island's capture by a French expedition, which dispersed the Order and ended its sovereignty.