1.
There was an early settlement long before the arrival of Stamford Raffles. It was located between the mouth of the Singapore River and a small watercourse known today as Stamford Canal. What was the original name of this stream?
Correct Answer
D. Fresh Water Spring
Explanation
The original name of the stream located between the mouth of the Singapore River and Stamford Canal was Fresh Water Spring.
2.
When did the first junk transporting immigrants from China arrive in Singapore?
Correct Answer
B. 1821
Explanation
In 1821, the first junk transporting immigrants from China arrived in Singapore. This marked the beginning of Chinese immigration to Singapore, which played a significant role in shaping the cultural and economic landscape of the city-state. The arrival of Chinese immigrants brought diverse skills and expertise, contributing to the growth and development of Singapore as a trading hub.
3.
The earliest mosque in Singapore is believed to be
Correct Answer
B. Omar mosque
Explanation
The correct answer is Omar mosque. The Omar mosque, also known as Masjid Omar Kampong Melaka, is believed to be the earliest mosque in Singapore. It was built in 1820 by the Chulia Muslim community and is located in the Kampong Melaka area. The mosque holds historical significance as it represents the early Muslim presence in Singapore and the contributions of the Chulia community to the development of the country.
4.
The oldest Jewish synagogue is the Maghain Aboth built in 1878. It is located at
Correct Answer
B. Waterloo Street
Explanation
The correct answer is Waterloo Street. The Maghain Aboth synagogue, which is the oldest Jewish synagogue, was built in 1878 and is located on Waterloo Street.
5.
The Sikhs make up a small but significant proportion of the Indian population of Singapore. They began arriving in Singapore from as early as 1881. Committed to their religion, they set about establishing temples. Today, the Central Sikh Temple is an imposing building, capped by an impressive dome. Where is it located?
Correct Answer
C. Towner Road
Explanation
The Central Sikh Temple in Singapore is located on Towner Road. The Sikhs have been present in Singapore since 1881 and have established various temples, including the Central Sikh Temple. The temple is known for its impressive dome and is a significant religious and cultural landmark for the Sikh community in Singapore.
6.
It is interesting to know that it was a wealthy Arab Muslim who donated the land for two non-Muslim buildings in Singapore. One of them was
Correct Answer
B. St Andrew's Cathedral
Explanation
St Andrew's Cathedral is the correct answer because it is one of the two non-Muslim buildings in Singapore that was donated by a wealthy Arab Muslim. This fact is interesting because it challenges stereotypes and highlights the diversity and generosity within the Muslim community.
7.
In 1875, the government bought over the old Parliament House for $15,000. What purpose, then, did it come to serve?
Correct Answer
D. Supreme Court of the colonial government
Explanation
The correct answer is "Supreme Court of the colonial government." The old Parliament House was bought by the government in 1875 and it came to serve as the Supreme Court of the colonial government. This suggests that the building was repurposed to house the judicial branch of the government, indicating its significance in the legal system during that time period.
8.
On what occasion was the bronze statue of Stamford Raffles moved from its original site to its present location in front of the Victoria Memorial Hall?
Correct Answer
C. Singapore's centenary celebrations
Explanation
The bronze statue of Stamford Raffles was moved from its original site to its present location in front of the Victoria Memorial Hall during Singapore's centenary celebrations.
9.
Today we are familiar with what is referred to as the Padang. It was, however, not known as the Padang until 1906. What was the original name given to it by Stamford Raffles?
Correct Answer
D. The Plain
Explanation
Stamford Raffles originally named the area "The Plain".
10.
The Istana is today the official residence of the President of the Republic of Singapore. The word means 'palace' in Malay. What was the name given to it when it was first built?
Correct Answer
D. Government House
Explanation
The correct answer is Government House. The Istana was initially called Government House when it was first built.
11.
In which year was the Istana built?
Correct Answer
A. 1869
Explanation
The correct answer is 1869. This is the year in which the Istana was built.
12.
Who supervised the construction of the Istana?
Correct Answer
A. A J F McNair
Explanation
A J F McNair supervised the construction of the Istana.
13.
Where was Tan Tock Seng Hospital originally located?
Correct Answer
D. Pearl's Hill
Explanation
Tan Tock Seng Hospital was originally located at Pearl's Hill.
14.
The site at which City Hall stands today was once occupied by the homes of private individuals. It was an oversight that led to the land sale. Stamford Raffles had wanted the site reserved for administrative buildings. The private homes eventually gave way to City Hall. When was City Hall built?
Correct Answer
C. Between 1926 and 1929
Explanation
The passage states that the private homes eventually gave way to City Hall, implying that City Hall was built after the private homes were demolished. Since the passage does not provide an exact year, we can infer that City Hall was built sometime between 1926 and 1929.
15.
Who designed the Supreme Court Building?
Correct Answer
D. Dorrington Ward
Explanation
Dorrington Ward is the correct answer because he is the architect who designed the Supreme Court Building.
16.
Pulau Ubin was once of great value to the main island of Singapore because of a valuable item it could offer. What was that item?
Correct Answer
D. Granite
Explanation
Pulau Ubin was once of great value to the main island of Singapore because it had a valuable item to offer, which was granite. Granite is a type of rock that is commonly used in construction and building materials. The granite quarries on Pulau Ubin provided a significant source of this valuable resource, making the island an important asset to Singapore's development and infrastructure.
17.
When did Raffles Hotel open for business?
Correct Answer
B. 1887
Explanation
Raffles Hotel opened for business in 1887.
18.
The Alsagoffs have always been a prominent family in Singapore. Their history can be traced back to 1824 when the first of them arrived in Singapore from Yemen, which is today south of Saudi Arabia. Beginning with trading in spices, the family went on to own land in different parts of Singapore and were engaged in various charitable activities. Who was the old patriarch of this family?
Correct Answer
A. Syed Abdul Raman Taha Alsagoff
Explanation
The correct answer is Syed Abdul Raman Taha Alsagoff. The explanation is that the question asks for the old patriarch of the Alsagoff family, and based on the information given, Syed Abdul Raman Taha Alsagoff is the most likely candidate. The question mentions that the family's history can be traced back to 1824 when the first of them arrived in Singapore from Yemen, and Syed Abdul Raman Taha Alsagoff is the oldest name provided as an option.
19.
What was the name given to Keppel Harbour when it began to service ocean going vessels?
Correct Answer
B. New Harbour
Explanation
The name given to Keppel Harbour when it began to service ocean going vessels was "New Harbour".
20.
Keppel Harbour was named after Captain Henry Keppel. Who was he?
Correct Answer
C. Admiral of the British Navy
Explanation
Captain Henry Keppel was an Admiral in the British Navy. He served in various naval positions during his career, including commanding several ships and leading expeditions. He was known for his contributions to the British Navy, particularly his role in the development of steam-powered ships. Due to his significant contributions and achievements in the navy, Keppel was honored by having Keppel Harbour named after him.
21.
Singapore's only suspension bridge is the
Correct Answer
C. Cavenagh Bridge
Explanation
Cavenagh Bridge is the correct answer because it is the only suspension bridge in Singapore. The other bridges listed, such as Read Bridge, Ord Bridge, and Anderson Bridge, are not suspension bridges. Therefore, Cavenagh Bridge is the only option that fits the given criteria.
22.
Which was the first bridge to be built across the Singapore River?
Correct Answer
A. Elgin Bridge
Explanation
Elgin Bridge is the correct answer for the first bridge to be built across the Singapore River. It was constructed in 1822 and named after Lord Elgin, the Governor-General of India at that time. The bridge played a significant role in connecting the two sides of the river and facilitating transportation and trade in Singapore. Today, it stands as a historical landmark and is an important part of Singapore's architectural heritage.
23.
What was the very first name of Fort Canning?
Correct Answer
D. Forbidden Hill
Explanation
Fort Canning was originally known as Forbidden Hill because it was believed to be the sacred burial ground of ancient Malay rulers. The name "Forbidden" implies that the hill was off-limits to commoners and held great significance to the ruling elite. Over time, the hill was renamed Fort Canning when the British built a military fort on the site. This new name was in honor of Viscount Charles John Canning, the first Viceroy of India.
24.
In which year did trolley buses first ply the roads of Singapore?
Correct Answer
C. 1926
Explanation
In 1926, trolley buses were first introduced and started operating on the roads of Singapore.
25.
It was not always the motorised vehicle that served as a means of transport in Singapore. In the days before and even after the arrival of Stamford Raffles, what was the standard mode of transport?
Correct Answer
B. The bullock cart
Explanation
In the days before and even after the arrival of Stamford Raffles, the standard mode of transport in Singapore was the bullock cart. This traditional form of transportation was commonly used for carrying goods and people, especially in rural areas. Bullock carts were pulled by oxen and were popular due to their ability to navigate through rough terrain. They played a crucial role in the development and transportation infrastructure of Singapore during that time.
26.
Which of these schools would figure as the oldest girls' school in Singapore?
Correct Answer
A. St Margaret's Secondary School
Explanation
St Margaret's Secondary School would figure as the oldest girls' school in Singapore because it was established in 1842, making it the first girls' school in the country. The other schools listed were established at later dates.
27.
Anglo Chinese School was founded by Rev William F Oldham in 1886. Where did it have its first home?
Correct Answer
C. Amoy Street
Explanation
The correct answer is Amoy Street. Anglo Chinese School was founded by Rev William F Oldham in 1886 and its first home was located on Amoy Street.
28.
When was the Singapore Cricket Club established?
Correct Answer
A. 1852
Explanation
The Singapore Cricket Club was established in 1852.
29.
Tan Kim Seng was an early immigrant who was not only a successful businessman but also a very civic minded person. What is he best remembered for in terms of his community contribution?
Correct Answer
D. Donated money to pump water to the city centre
Explanation
Tan Kim Seng is best remembered for his community contribution of donating money to pump water to the city centre. This contribution highlights his civic-mindedness and concern for the well-being of the community. By providing access to clean and reliable water, Tan Kim Seng's donation helped improve the living conditions and health of the people in the city. This act of philanthropy demonstrates his commitment to the betterment of his community and his willingness to invest in essential infrastructure for the benefit of all.
30.
What was the actual date on which Stamford Raffles signed a treaty with Temenggong Abdu'r Rahman to establish a trading post on the island of Singapore?
Correct Answer
A. 30 January 1819
Explanation
Stamford Raffles signed a treaty with Temenggong Abdu'r Rahman on 30 January 1819 to establish a trading post on the island of Singapore.
31.
Stamford Raffles obtained the approval of the Temenggong to establish only a trading station on the island. It was another British officer who secured the entire island and the surrounding islands for the British Crown. Who was this officer?
Correct Answer
B. John Crawfurd
Explanation
John Crawfurd was the British officer who secured the entire island and the surrounding islands for the British Crown. Stamford Raffles, although obtaining the approval of the Temenggong, only established a trading station on the island. Crawfurd played a crucial role in negotiating treaties with the local rulers, including the Sultan of Johor, which resulted in the acquisition of Singapore by the British. He was appointed as the second Resident of Singapore and worked towards establishing British control over the island, paving the way for its development as a British colony.
32.
Stamford Raffles is said to have been devastated when his first wife passed away. Though much older than him and the subject of some gossip that he married her to win the favour of his superior who was her father, he loved her dearly and was a broken man when he lost her. What was her name?
Correct Answer
C. Olivia Fancourt
33.
Where might one find the burial place of Stamford Raffles?
Correct Answer
D. In Hendon, England
Explanation
Stamford Raffles, the founder of modern Singapore, is buried in Hendon, England. This is where he passed away and his final resting place. The other options mentioned, Jakarta (previously Batavia), Bencoolen, and Fort Canning, are not the correct burial places for Stamford Raffles.
34.
During the second half of the 18th century the traders of the East India Company were attracted to the trade with China. However, they had nothing to offer the Chinese in exchange for their produce. Initially, they paid for them in silver but this was not in the interests of China. What did they come up with as a solution?
Correct Answer
D. Opium
Explanation
During the second half of the 18th century, the traders of the East India Company faced a challenge in trading with China as they had nothing to offer in exchange for Chinese produce. Initially, they used silver to pay for the goods, but this was not favorable for China. As a solution, they came up with the idea of trading opium. Opium was highly addictive and in demand in China, allowing the East India Company to establish a profitable trade by exchanging opium for Chinese goods.
35.
Three of the earliest British possessions in Malaya were combined into one administrative unit, known as the Straits Settlements. When did this take place?
Correct Answer
A. 1826
Explanation
In 1826, the three earliest British possessions in Malaya were merged into a single administrative unit called the Straits Settlements. This consolidation aimed to improve governance and facilitate trade in the region. By combining Penang, Malacca, and Singapore, the British were able to exert greater control over the area and establish a more efficient administrative system. This move played a significant role in shaping the British colonial presence in Malaya and laid the foundation for future developments in the region.
36.
Who were the main traders transporting the goods and produce of Southeast Asia after Stamford Raffles set up a trading post in Singapore?
Correct Answer
B. Bugis
Explanation
After Stamford Raffles established a trading post in Singapore, the main traders who transported goods and produce from Southeast Asia were the Bugis. The Bugis, who originally hailed from Sulawesi in Indonesia, were known for their expertise in maritime trade and navigation. They had a strong presence in the region and played a significant role in facilitating trade between Southeast Asia and other parts of the world. Their knowledge of the sea routes and their trading networks made them the primary traders in the area during that time.
37.
Many Chinese from different dialect groups and provinces of China were attracted to Singapore and Malaya. They hoped to escape the harsh realities of life in their mother country. The majority were of the Taoist and Buddhist faiths. One dialect group that was predominantly Catholic came to be concentrated at the extreme end of Upper Serangoon Road and Ponggol. Which was that dialect group?
Correct Answer
A. Teochew
Explanation
The dialect group that was predominantly Catholic and concentrated at the extreme end of Upper Serangoon Road and Ponggol is Teochew.
38.
The majority of the immigrants from India were southern Indians. From the north came Sikhs, Sindhis and Gujeratis. The Sikhs imported and traded in cotton goods. Where did they first set up shop in Singapore?
Correct Answer
D. High Street
Explanation
The Sikhs first set up shop in Singapore on High Street.
39.
What does "Operation Sook Ching" refer to?
Correct Answer
A. The massacre of Chinese by the Japanese
Explanation
"Operation Sook Ching" refers to the massacre of Chinese by the Japanese. This term specifically refers to the systematic extermination of Chinese people in Singapore during World War II. The Japanese targeted Chinese individuals, including civilians and suspected anti-Japanese activists, and executed them in large numbers. This brutal operation aimed to eliminate potential threats and assert control over the Chinese population in Singapore.
40.
Who was the Japanese officer who signed the order surrendering Singapore to the British in 1945?
Correct Answer
B. Itagaki Seishiro
Explanation
Itagaki Seishiro was the Japanese officer who signed the order surrendering Singapore to the British in 1945.
41.
After the War in 19i45, further demands were made that led to the setting up of a commission in 1953, the recommendations of which were to pave the way for internal self -government for Singapore. What was the name of this commission?
Correct Answer
B. Rendel Commission
Explanation
The correct answer is Rendel Commission. After the War in 1945, demands were made for self-government in Singapore, leading to the establishment of a commission in 1953. The recommendations of the Rendel Commission played a crucial role in paving the way for internal self-government in Singapore.
42.
The 1953 Commission also recommended the creation of a Legislative Assembly with a majority of elected members. This led to elections to the Legislative Council and the granting of limited internal self government to Singapore. When was this achieved?
Correct Answer
B. 1955
Explanation
In 1955, the recommendation of the 1953 Commission to create a Legislative Assembly with a majority of elected members was achieved. This resulted in elections to the Legislative Council and the granting of limited internal self-government to Singapore.
43.
Mr Lee Kuan Yew teamed up with Dr Goh Keng Swee, Mr K M Byrne and Dr Toh Chin Chye to spearhead a move for the establishment of an independent socialist Malaya and Singapore. He began by making inroads into labour unions, serving as adviser to some of them. In 1952, a strike by some government workers took place. He was the adviser of their union. It is believed this thrust Mr Lee Kuan Yew onto the political scene. What was the name of the union that called the strike?
Correct Answer
A. Postal and Telecommunications Uniformed Staff Union
44.
When was ASEAN founded?
Correct Answer
C. July 1967
Explanation
ASEAN, the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, was founded in July 1967. This regional organization was established with the aim of promoting economic growth, social progress, and cultural development among its member countries. The formation of ASEAN was a response to the need for regional cooperation and integration in Southeast Asia, in order to address common challenges and foster peace and stability in the region.
45.
Raffles' statue erected on the landing site of the Singapore River was installed in
Correct Answer
B. 1972
Explanation
The correct answer is 1972. This means that the Raffles' statue was installed on the landing site of the Singapore River in 1972.
46.
The original bronze Raffles was designed by
Correct Answer
B. T Woolner
47.
The oldest building still standing in Singapore is
Correct Answer
D. The old Parliament House
Explanation
The old Parliament House is the correct answer because it is the oldest building still standing in Singapore. It was built in 1827 and served as the seat of the Singaporean government until 1999. The building has historical significance and is a symbol of Singapore's political history. It is now known as The Arts House and serves as a multi-disciplinary arts center.
48.
Fort Fullerton was demolished in
Correct Answer
B. 1873
Explanation
Fort Fullerton was demolished in 1873. This means that the fort was destroyed or torn down in that specific year.
49.
The old Fullerton Building was completed in
Correct Answer
B. 1928
Explanation
The old Fullerton Building was completed in 1928.
50.
The second St Andrew's Cathedral built in the 1870s was designed by
Correct Answer
A. R MacpHerson
Explanation
R MacPherson is the correct answer because he was the architect who designed the second St Andrew's Cathedral built in the 1870s. The other options, G D Coleman, Frank Dorrington Ward, and John Turnbull Thomson, were not involved in the design of this particular cathedral.