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1979: THE END OF AN ERA

The year 1979 is an important milestone in Maltese history when Britain’s military connection to Malta came to an end. British forces representing NATO left the island when their contract for the use of Malta as a military base ended. It was a combination of decolonisation, party politics and economic measures that left the negotiating parties no choice but to quietly end a colourful 179-year long stay. The Royal Navy destroyer HMS London left the Grand Harbour on 31st March, in bleak weather, to the tune of Rod Stewart’s Sailing played by the Royal Marines band on board. On board HMS London that day was Rear-Admiral Sir Nigel Cecil, the last Royal Navy commander of British naval units based in Malta. Along with the end of the British military base in Malta and the end of foreign occupation of the island, 1979 brought with it a number of changes in Maltese society and foreign policy.

ArtEfacts

Size

42cm x 29cm

Date

1809

Location

Malta Maritime Museum, Third Floor

Reference Code

MMM 005209

Date

20th century

Location

Malta Maritime Museum, Third Floor

Reference Code

MMM 004632

1 Royal Navy Summer Commodore Jacket, 3 White peaked caps, 2 Black ties.

Size

57cm x 3.7; 3cm

Date

20th century

Location

Malta Maritime Museum, Third Floor

Reference Code

MMM 005073

Size

16cm x 22cm

Date

20th century

Location

Malta Maritime Museum, Third Floor

Reference Code

MMM 005074.3

Size

21cm x 30cm

Date

31 October 1978

Location

Malta Maritime Museum, Third Floor

Reference Code

MMM 005078

Size

131 x 96cm (framed)

Date

1980

Location

Malta Maritime Museum, Third Floor

Creator

Raymond Pitre

Reference Code

MMM 005112

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