History and Singapore as we know it
In the Malay Archipelago, Singapore was one of the many trading outposts serving as an entrepot and supply point for Thai, Malay, Indian, Arab, Chinese and Javanese traders.
In 11
th century, the region came under the sway and influence of Chola empire of India.
The Legend that named the Country
According to legend, in 14
th Century, Sang Nila Utama, a Prince from Palembang (the capital of Srivijaya in Indonesia), was out on a hunting trip when he caught sight of an unusual animal. He founded a city where the animal had been spotted, naming it “The Lion City” or Singapura, from the Sanskrit words “simha” (lion) and “pura” (city). The city was then ruled by the five kings of ancient Singapura.
Between 15th – 18th Century
The region moved from Sultanate of Malacca, to the Portuguese to the Dutch, between 15th to 18th century. During World War II, Singapore fell under the Japanese invasion in 1942, remaining occupied for three and a half years. When the Japanese surrendered in 1945, the island was handed over to the British Military Administration, which remained in power until April 1946, when Singapore became a Crown Colony.
In 1965, Singapore became an independent and sovereign democratic nation.
DO YOU KNOW?
Singapore was known as Temasek in the 13th to 14th century. This name was recorded by a Chinese trader Wang Dayuan during his voyage in around 1330. Schools, roads and companies have been named after Temask since.
Published date Oct 2020. All info is accurate as at time of publication.