🏝 Singapore 1299–1599: Early Kingdom & Trading Hub
1299 – Founding of Singapura
- According to the Malay Annals, Sang Nila Utama, a prince from Palembang, founded a settlement called Singapura (“Lion City”).
14th Century – A Thriving Port
- Singapura grew into a busy trading port in the Srivijaya and Majapahit spheres of influence.
- It attracted traders from China, India, and the Malay Archipelago.
Late 14th Century – Political Struggles
- The Majapahit Empire launched attacks on Singapura.
- By the late 1300s, the settlement declined due to conflicts and shifting trade routes.
15th Century – Malacca Rises
- Many rulers and traders moved to Malacca, which became the new regional hub.
- Singapore’s importance diminished, though it remained a stopping point for ships.
16th Century – Portuguese Era
- The Portuguese conquest of Malacca in 1511 reduced Singapore to a small trading outpost.
- Portuguese and regional traders still used the island as a convenient port of call.
By 1599
- Singapore was not yet a major center, but it stayed on important maritime routes between the Indian Ocean and South China Sea.