Malta, a small island in the Mediterranean with a population of less than half a million, has played a surprisingly big role in the art of persuasion. For hundreds of years, this tiny island, located between Europe and North Africa, has been a mix of different cultures that left their mark—not just in buildings or food, but also in the skill of public speaking.
If you walk through Malta’s winding streets today, you’ll hear people speaking Maltese, English, and Italian—languages that reflect its rich history. But if you could hear voices from centuries ago, you’d hear some of the first examples of powerful speeches, given by ancient leaders, knights, and even merchants who knew how to use words to make an impact.
The Power of Persuasion in Ancient Malta
Malta’s history is full of exciting events—conquests, battles, pirates, and many different rulers. And in the middle of all this were people who knew how to change others’ minds with a well-timed speech. The Phoenicians, Romans, Arabs, and later, the Knights of St. John all knew one thing: on an island like Malta, with its importance and complex alliances, the ability to persuade was often more powerful than using force.
In ancient Rome, being able to speak well was a skill of the elite, as important as being good with a sword for any leader. Malta, under Roman rule, learned this tradition. Roman commanders in Malta didn’t just lead by fighting—they spoke to their soldiers and citizens, encouraging them with speeches that appealed to logic, emotions, and shared values. Persuasion wasn’t just a tool for ruling; it was an art.
A Knight’s Tale: The Siege That Changed Everything
In 1565, Malta was the site of one of the greatest military sieges in history. The Ottoman Empire, at the peak of its power, wanted to capture the island and control the Mediterranean. The defenders? The Knights of St. John, a group of warriors known for their bravery, fighting skills, and—yes—their speaking skills.
During the Great Siege of Malta, the leader of the Knights, Grand Master Jean de Valette, wasn’t just a fighter; he was also a speaker who knew how to inspire. As the Ottoman forces closed in, greatly outnumbering the defenders, de Valette gave powerful speeches to his knights and the Maltese people. He didn’t hide the truth—everyone knew the odds were against them. But his words, filled with passion and purpose, reminded them that they were fighting for their survival, their homes, and their honor.
The siege lasted for months, but de Valette’s speeches kept everyone’s spirits high, even as supplies ran low and hope seemed lost. Against all odds, the Knights and the Maltese people won, and Malta’s place in history was secured. It was a victory not just of military strategy, but also of strong leadership and persuasive words.
Rhetoric in Daily Life: The Merchants’ Market
Not all examples of Malta’s speaking skills come from battles. If you visit one of Malta’s traditional markets today, you’ll see another kind of persuasive speaking. The island’s merchants are experts at making a good pitch, a skill passed down through generations. Whether they’re selling fresh fruits, handmade crafts, or antiques, these traders know how to connect with people, using humor, charm, and an understanding of what makes people tick.
One such vendor, let’s call him Anton, has been selling goods in Valletta for over 30 years. His secret? “It’s all in the story,” he says with a smile. “Anyone can sell a product. But if you can make them feel like they need it—now that’s persuasion.” Anton’s stories, whether about the history of a handmade ceramic plate or the special qualities of a local spice, aren’t just sales tricks. They’re mini-performances, where words turn an everyday sale into something memorable.
The Ancient Lessons in Modern Times
What’s amazing is that these old techniques of persuasion are still useful today. Whether in politics, business, or everyday conversations, the ability to convince, inspire, and influence others is still one of the most powerful tools a person can have. Malta’s long history as a meeting point for different cultures has made it a special place to learn about this skill—where different traditions of public speaking, from the Greeks and Romans to the Arabs and Normans, have mixed and changed over time.
In today’s fast-paced, connected world, the lessons of Malta’s past are more valuable than ever. The key parts of persuasion—knowing your audience, building trust, and appealing to emotions—never go out of style. While we might not be defending castles or selling goods in the market, the way we use our words can still change minds, build relationships, and inspire action.