1946 – Crown Colony Era
Singapore becomes a separate Crown Colony after World War II, beginning its post-war recovery.1959 – Self-Government
Singapore attains self-rule in internal affairs. Lee Kuan Yew becomes the first Prime Minister.1963 (2 February) – Operation Coldstore
Over 100 suspected communist sympathisers are arrested without trial, consolidating political control.1963 (16 September) – Merger with Malaysia
Singapore joins Malaya, Sabah, and Sarawak to form the Federation of Malaysia, while retaining some autonomy.1964 – Racial Riots
Communal clashes erupt on 21 July and 2 September, straining relations within the federation.1963–1964 – Rising Tensions
Political and economic disputes deepen instability within the Malaysia–Singapore merger.