Contributions of the Early Immigrants

Tip:

When studying this topic, do link the various occupations to one central theme. That is, all the occupations undertaken by the various races ultimately contributed to the growth of Singapore as an early settlement. So your task is to explain these points with reference to the role played by the early immigrants to the growth of early Singapore.

a)Contributions of the Malays

•Malay shopkeepers, hawkers, fishermen provided basic necessities

•Ship builders built boats for the Chinese & Malay traders

•Rich businessmen helped in the building of schools and wells in villages

b) Contributions of the Chinese

• Chinese middlemen acted as links between local & British traders

• Businessmen provided jobs for new immigrants

• Chinese philanthropists cared for the welfare of less fortunate countrymen

• Unskilled labourers worked in construction sites & dockyards

c) Contributions of the Indians

• Indian Chettiars provided banking & money-lending

• Indian convicts cleared jungles and built road and buildings

• Indian shopkeepers provided dairy products, cloth & laundry services

• Indian bullock drivers provided transport

d) Contributions of the Europeans

• British merchants set up agency houses which carried goods to and from Europe, India & China

• Businessmen provided services like banking, shipping & insurance

• British officials served as administrators of the settlement

Greetings and Salutations 2007

Dear All

Welcome back to a new year!

This is to inform you that from this year onwards, I will not be posting any materials pertaining to History of Ancient India, China and Southeast Asia. As I am teaching Sec 2 History, the focus will thus be on Singapore's History.

Do check this blog for updates on teaching notes, reading materials, homework, assignments and other relevant materials.

Happy reading!