Old map of Hong Kong and Kowloon, 1957

In 1957, Hong Kong and Kowloon were two distinct regions that played a significant role in the history of modern-day Hong Kong. Here's an overview of each region during that time:

Hong Kong: Hong Kong was already established as a British colony by 1957. The British took control of Hong Kong Island in 1842 after the First Opium War, and the New Territories (which included Kowloon) were leased to Britain in 1898 for 99 years. As a result, Hong Kong was divided into two main areas: Hong Kong Island and the Kowloon Peninsula, both of which were under British administration.

During the 1950s, Hong Kong was undergoing significant economic and social development. It had become a major trading port, attracting businesses and people from various parts of the world. The manufacturing and textile industries were particularly thriving, contributing to the economic growth of the region.

In the post-war period, Hong Kong experienced a large influx of immigrants, mainly from mainland China. This mass migration, which continued until the 1980s, significantly impacted the demographics and cultural landscape of the territory.

Kowloon: Kowloon, which means "Nine Dragons" in Cantonese, is a large peninsula located just north of Hong Kong Island. It was part of the New Territories and was directly connected to the British colony of Hong Kong. During the 1950s, Kowloon was already developing as a densely populated urban area with growing industrial and commercial activities.

In 1957, Kowloon had an eclectic mix of neighborhoods, from traditional Chinese communities to colonial-era buildings. The area was known for its bustling markets, residential areas, and various entertainment establishments. The famous Kowloon Walled City, a densely populated and unregulated settlement, was also present during this time, although it was eventually demolished in the 1990s.

The political and economic climate in both Hong Kong and Kowloon remained relatively stable during this period. However, tensions between the British colonial authorities and the Chinese government occasionally surfaced, especially as the expiration of the New Territories lease in 1997 approached.

It is worth noting that in 1997, the lease on the New Territories expired, and Hong Kong, including both Hong Kong Island and Kowloon, was handed back to China under the principle of "One Country, Two Systems." Under this arrangement, Hong Kong has retained its own legal system, civil liberties, and some degree of autonomy, while being part of the People's Republic of China.