Episode 35: The Turning Point

The introduction of self-government to Singapore in 1959 meant Singapore reached a democratic height that it has never reached again. And because of the open democratic system, politicians had to furiously compete with each other for votes. 1959 was perhaps Singapore’s most politically exciting year, seeing both the best and worst of democracy in the events surrounding the election. In this episode, PJ Thum describes the events of 1959, and explains why 1959 (a date whose significance is often lost to Singaporeans) is so significant.

Please send questions, comments, and feedback to thehistoryofsingapore@gmail.com or visit thehistoryofsingapore.com. Support the show at patreon.com/pjthum. For all the previous episodes in this series, search for "History of Singapore" on bfm.my.