Throughout much of its history, Malta was considered to have a crucial strategic location due to its position in the Mediterranean Sea. It was held by several ancient cultures including The Phoenicians, Sicilians, Romans, Byzantines, Arabs, Normans and others. The country is commonly associated with the Knights of the Order of St. John of Jerusalem, who ruled it from the mid 16th century. In 1798, the French under Napoleon took the island on 12 June, without resistance, when the Grand Master of the Order capitulated after deciding that the island could not be defended against the opposing French naval force. French rule lasted a little over 2 years, until they surrendered to the British Royal Navy, under Admiral Nelson's command, in September 1800. Great Britain formally acquired possession of Malta in 1814. The island staunchly supported the UK through both World Wars. Malta gained independence from Britain in 1964 and is currently a member of the European Union which it joined in 2004.  - http://www.malta-gozo-comino.info/maltahistory.html