Storja 2023

Abstract

The year 2023 marks 60 years since the foundation of the Malta University Historical Society (MUHS) in 1963. Much has changed since then: Malta was not even yet an independent state, the University of Malta was still ‘royal’, and the MUHS was taking its first tentative steps. Some years later, in 1978, came the publication of the first-ever edition of Storja. Most of those contributing to this volume were born after 1963; indeed, some are just in their mid-to-late 20s. While ‘age may be just a number’, it is worth reflecting on such numbers for they speak of a tale of vibrant continuity. Once again, Storja is predominantly packed with papers that stem from the research-based dissertations of recent alumni of the Department of History. The torch that was first lit in 1963 is still being carried high and with pride. Diamonds are the customary gift for someone marking their 60th anniversary. Although made of paper, the publication of Storja 2023 may be considered a diamond in its own right, a valuable contribution that marks the challenges faced by, and the accomplishments of MUHS over six decades, as well as being a gift to the wider community of Melitensia lovers.