Did The Japanese Occupation Change The Way People Viewed Singapore?

Did The Japanese Occupation Change The Way People Viewed Singapore?

1. What happened in Singapore before war happened?

   • Singapore was under the British Rule
     • British Strategy in the event of danger in Singapore
       • British said that if there was a danger in Asia, they would send in ships from Europe. Thus, they built a huge naval base at Sembawang in 1938 for the fleet
     • Privileges for the British
       • British thought that European culture is superior. Thus, it is their responsibility to make those they ruled more civilised
         • Little Local involvement
           • Only in legistative council as non -official representatives
           • Had little power and influence in decision making

2. How did Singapore fall for the Japanese?

   • 1. British Airfield destroyed at Kota Bahru.
     • 2. Without airplanes to protect them, Prince of Wales and HMS Repulse bombed by Japanese. British lose control of Sea.
       • 4. Battle of Jitra -Japanese tanks move faster than British thought possible. Thus, they were taken by surprise. Although the Japanese were outnumbered, they were better trained.