1819 – Founding of Modern Singapore
- Sir Stamford Raffles establishes Singapore as a British trading port.
- The island becomes a magnet for Chinese, Indian, and Malay migrants.
1824 – British Consolidation
- Singapore officially becomes a British colony under the Anglo-Dutch Treaty.
- Rapid growth as a free port boosts trade and population.
1850s–1880s – Urban Expansion
- Streets, port facilities, and public services developed.
- Immigrant communities establish cultural and religious hubs.
1890s–1930s – Industrial & Social Growth
- Industries like rubber and tin thrive.
- Education, hospitals, and social organizations expand.
- Singapore becomes a strategic naval base under British control.
1942 – Japanese Invasion & Key Battles
- Sarimbun Beach (8–9 Feb 1942): Japanese forces landed at the northwestern coast; initial clashes with Allied troops delayed their advance.
- Lim Chu Kang: Allied forces set up defensive lines; skirmishes occurred as Japanese pushed south.
- Bukit Timah (10–12 Feb 1942): Critical battles over water reservoirs and high ground; Japanese captured key positions, cutting off Allied reinforcements.
- Bukit Chandu (13 Feb 1942): Also known as the Battle of Pasir Panjang; 42 soldiers of the Malay Regiment fought to the last man against overwhelming Japanese forces. This site became a symbol of heroism.
- Bukit Batok: Defensive positions used by retreating Allied troops; Japanese artillery shelled these areas during their advance.
1942–1945 – Japanese Occupation
- Singapore renamed Syonan-to.
- Harsh occupation brought forced labor, executions, and local resistance.
1945 – British Reoccupation
- British forces retake Singapore after Japan surrenders.