Was Singapore a British Colony?

Singapore was a British Crown colony between the years of 1946 through 1963 and became part of Malaysia at that time. In WWII the island was returned to the British in 1945, and then in 1946 the Straits Settlements were dissolved, and Singapore, Cocos-Keeling and Christmas islands became a separate Crown colony and was governed by the British. The inhabitants were grateful for the takeover of British rule.

At that time so much of Singapore's infrastructure was destroyed, including electricity, water supply, telephone service, and harbor facilities. There was a shortage of food, and there was much malnutrition, disease, crimes, and violence. After much upheaval, the economy and living began to recover. There was a need for tin and rubber around the world and Singapore has that; however, it took many years before the economy returned to pre-war levels.

Singapore began its history during the 14th century. It became a British colony in 1819. Then it changed during World War II when Japan attacked and conquered Singapore. This only took place during the duration of the war from the time it was conquered by the Japanese. So, this was from 1942 to 1945. After that Singapore became a British colony again.

Then Malaysia and Singapore began to merge together because the British were allowing Singapore to govern themselves more. However, tension grew between Malaysia and Singapore. By 1965, Singapore had gained its freedom and became its own country. Then Singapore took a different approach in order to strengthen their economy by partnering with Taiwan, Hong Kong and South Korea. They became trading partners.