Slavery, Treason and Blood The 1749 Plot of the Slaves in Malta

By William Zammit

HARDBACK • 400 PAGES • FULL COLOUR ON COATED PAPER

The main protagonists of 1749 remain the slaves themselves, albeit mostly silent and with their limited recorded discourse uttered only under duress. In few other instances have actions spoken louder than words. Their quest for liberty, strong enough to make them take terrible risks, remains an indelible testimony of the innate human yearning for freedom. Condemned to an atrocious death, their captors proceeded to extend the hapless slaves’ bondage even to their souls. Many succumbed, but others resisted that last onslaught. Subjugated in body, but not in spirit, theirs was the final act of defiance and a public assertion of the tenacity and determination of the human spirit.

“This in-depth, comprehensive, skilfully weaved and lavishly illustrated volume constitutes a leading reference on eighteenth-century Malta and is a must-have for every self-respecting Melitensia collector. Ultimately, however, it should instil conscious appreciation of the liberties and rights which our forerunners toiled to earn.”

Mario Cutajar Chairman, Heritage Malta

“A story of intense physical and psychological suffering engendered by egotism, ambition, power and revenge. It is, above all, a tragic attestation of humanity’s innate craving for freedom across time. To this day the price of liberty remains high, at best exacted through constant vigilance and sacrifice. For so many millions it remains elusive and unaffordable.”

William Zammit Author

Heritage Malta Publishing is launching a new series to its exclusive literary genre