When did Singapore become a trading port?

1819
Singapore’s excellent location along the Maritime Silk Road meant it was easy for traders to stop by with goods. When Singapore was set up as a free port in 1819, it allowed goods to be traded freely without anyone having to pay heavy fees.

Why did the British make Singapore a free port?

Raffles devised a set of policies and regulations that outlined the objectives of Singapore’s harbour, helping to establish the settlement as a free port. Singapore was chosen, by virtue of its strategic geographical location, to compete with other ports under the control of the Dutch.

Why did Singapore become independent?

On 9 August 1965, Singapore separated from Malaysia to become an independent and sovereign state. The separation was the result of deep political and economic differences between the ruling parties of Singapore and Malaysia, which created communal tensions that resulted in racial riots in July and September 1964.

Who really founded Singapore?

Modern Singapore was founded in the 19th century, thanks to politics, trade and a man known as Sir Thomas Stamford Raffles.

Why did Singapore decline as a trading port after the 14th century?

By the end of the 14th century, however, Temasek had declined as a trading port. This was because the rise of the Ming dynasty caused trade to slow down, as China discouraged overseas trade through private merchants.

When did Singapore become fully independent?

On 9 August 1965, Singapore separated from Malaysia to become an independent and sovereign state.

What is the history of Singapore’s maritime trade?

As the volume of its maritime trade increased in the 19th century, Singapore became a key port of call for sailing and steam vessels in their passage along Asian sea routes.

Why was Singapore important to the British East India Company?

After surveying other nearby islands in 1819, Sir Stamford Raffles and the rest of the British East India Company landed on Singapore, which was to become their strategic trading post along the spice route. Eventually Singapore became one of the most important commercial and military centers of the British Empire.

What is the role of the port of Singapore in transportation?

Roads and railways were developed to transport primary materials such as crude oil, rubber and tin from the Malay Peninsula to Singapore to be processed into staple products, and then shipped to Britain and other international markets. During the colonial period, this was the most important role of the port of Singapore.

Where was Singapore’s first container terminal built?

The decision taken in 1969 to build Singapore’s first container terminal in Tanjong Pagar propelled Singapore from a small port into the global league.