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How did British Rule and External Developments affect Singapore's growth as a Port City from 1819 to 1942?
British Rule - Political
Make a guess! What do you think the history of Penang, Malacca, and Singapore have in common?
Make a guess! What do you think the history of Penang, Malacca, and Singapore have in common?
Flag of the Straits Settlements
If you had guessed something to do with the British, you would be right! Although Penang and Malacca are now part of a different country, Malaysia, they had a common history with Singapore as part of the Straits Settlements. These refer to administrative unit of the East India Company from 1825 to 1867. In 1867, after the dissolution of the East India Company, they would become Crown Colonies governed directly from London in the UK.
British Rule - Economic
The British's main purpose in establishing a trading post in Singapore was trade. Naturally, they made efforts to improve Singapore's economic situation.
Keppel Harbour
Keppel Harbour
Then
Then
Now
Now
The above photos are of the same area in present-day Keppel Harbour. In the 19th century, the British opened a New Harbour in the exact same place. This was because the port at the Singapore River was getting increasingly congested. A deep-water berth was thus needed and New Harbour was the natural choice.
Free Port Status
Free Port Status
The British also made Singapore a free port, which meant you did not need to pay taxes when you bring in (import) or bring out (export) goods. This attracted traders to come to Singapore from all over the region, which made Singapore a bustling and prosperous trade centre.
Share your thoughts!
Share your thoughts!
British Rule - Social
Early Singapore faced a number of social issues. For example, Chinese secret societies were rampant. Chinese labourers were also exploited, and many young women were forced/sold into prostitution against their wills. Education and healthcare was poor. The British made some efforts to address these issues.
Watch this video to find out about the secret societies in Singapore.
Watch this video to find out about how the British set up the Chinese Protectorate to deal with the secret societies and other social issues.
The British set up the first hospital in Singapore in the 1800s: the General Hospital, now known as Singapore General Hospital. However, many locals still did not have access to proper healthcare.
The above image is an 1841 watercolour painting of the since demolished Singapore Institution, which was the first school set up by the British in 1823. It is the origin of today's Raffles Institution. Nonetheless, the provision of education during the 19th century was lacking and many locals did not receive much education.
What impact did external developments have on Singapore's growth as a port city?
Expansion of Tin Industry
Expansion of Rubber Industry
Opening of the Suez Canal
The Great Depression
Vote and see the results below!
Vote and see the results below!
Chapter 3 Graphic Organiser.docxGraphic Organiser
Graphic Organiser
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