Old city map of Singapore, 1956

In 1956, Singapore was a British crown colony. It was a crucial trading port and strategically located at the southern tip of the Malay Peninsula. The city had a diverse population comprising various ethnic groups, including the Malays, Chinese, Indians, and other minority communities.

During this period, Singapore was going through significant political changes and social developments. The political landscape was dominated by British colonial governance, and there was growing demand for self-determination and independence among the local population. The local political parties were increasingly vocal in their calls for greater representation and autonomy.

In 1956, David Marshall, a prominent lawyer and leader of the Labour Front, became Singapore's first Chief Minister. His party had won the 1955 general election, marking a milestone as it was the first time a majority of seats in the Legislative Assembly were contested by popular vote. Marshall's government focused on addressing social issues and inequality in the colony.

However, the political climate remained turbulent, and issues between ethnic groups added to the complexities of governance. The Chinese majority sought greater political representation, while the Malays were concerned about their political and cultural rights. These tensions would later play a crucial role in shaping Singapore's political landscape.

In 1959, Singapore held its first fully elected General Election, which marked a critical turning point in its history. The People's Action Party (PAP), led by Lee Kuan Yew, won a significant victory, and Lee became the Prime Minister. Under Lee's leadership, Singapore embarked on a path towards self-government and, eventually, independence.

The subsequent years saw rapid economic development and modernization under the PAP's rule. By the early 1960s, Singapore gained self-governance, and in 1965, it separated from Malaysia to become an independent and sovereign nation.