Saint-Malo
Brittany, France
What happened
Saint-Malo is a walled port town on the coast of Brittany, in northwest France. It became famous as the home of the corsairs, French privateers who sailed with the king's permission against enemy ships. From 1590 to 1594 the town declared itself an independent republic.
Why it matters
The corsairs of Saint-Malo made English ships passing up the Channel pay tribute and brought wealth home from overseas. They were licensed by their government, unlike pirates.
What came next
In late August and early September 1944 the historic walled city was almost totally destroyed in fighting in World War II. It was rebuilt over 12 years, from 1948 to 1960.
Did you know?
The Spanish name for the Falkland Islands, Islas Malvinas, comes from Iles Malouines, the name French explorer Louis-Antoine de Bougainville gave them in 1764 after the people of Saint-Malo.
Timeline
- 1590 to 1594Saint-Malo declares itself an independent republic.
- 1764Bougainville names the Iles Malouines after Saint-Malo.
- 1944The walled city is almost totally destroyed in World War II.
- 1948 to 1960The city is rebuilt.