Happy Hour: The Great Siege of Malta and the Fate of Empires

Sixteenth century European historians will find this ESU Happy Hour fascinating and one of tremendous significance. The Great Siege of Malta, a four-month battle from May 18 to September 11, 1565, is considered one of the most ferocious conflicts in military history. Rarely have the odds been so unequal and the stakes so high.

In 1565 Malta was the key to Europe. And during the summer of that year, the future of Western Civilization was decided. The Ottoman Empire had extended its control over most of the Mediterranean. If the tiny island of Malta could be captured, it could become the staging ground for the invasion of critical ports in Europe.

It was an epic struggle, a remarkable tale of resolve and leadership, of disunity in command, and disunity among allies. Historically, the Great Siege of Malta was one of the bloodiest and most fiercely contested battles of the sixteenth century.

Dr. Wayne Bowen, Professor of History and Associate Dean for the College of Undergraduate Studies at the University of Central Florida, draws us into this four-month siege on the island of Malta. This ESU Happy Hour is sponsored by the ESU Central Florida Branch. ESU Happy Hour programs are online, free, and open to all members and the public. Registration is required.