Singapore: A Pictorial History 1819-2000

by Gretchen Liu

In less than two centuries, Singapore has transformed itself from a small coastal kampong into a modern metropolis. After the arrival of Sir Stamford Raffles. Singapore grew from a humble village into a thriving colony, then was designated a Straits Settlement, and in 1965 became an independent nation state. Over 1,200 images--photographs, paintings, lithographs and engravings--and accompanying text, tell the story of Singapore. Many of the images have never been published before.

Genres: History, Photography, Nonfiction, Travel, Reference

400 pages, Hardcover

First published April 27, 2001

Reviews

[Carolyn Harris · Rating 5 out of 5]

An informative and beautifully illustrated history of Singapore that reflects the country's cultural diversity from the 19th century to the present day. Liu does not only provide a political and social history of Singapore through visual culture but also the history of art and photography in the region. She discusses the origins of the images as well as the events depicted in them. There are some interesting photographs of royal tours including the welcome of the Duke and Duchess of Cornwall and York (future King George V and Queen Mary) in 1901, a garden party in honour of the Duke of Connaught in 1906, the future King Edward VIII at the Malaya Borneo exhibition in 1922 and Queen Elizabeth II at a military review in 1972. The book concludes with panoramic landscapes of modern Singapore. A fascinating book, especially for travelers to the region.

[Sharon Seow · Rating 5 out of 5]

To me, this book is a keeper. Using chronology as the main approach, the book goes on to skilfully share the experiences of the different peoples and sectors in a coherent narrative paired with priceless images that collectively and steadily bring Singapore's history to life.

[Climbing · Rating 5 out of 5]

A really great book. Amazing photos and very educational narratives.

[Luis · Rating 5 out of 5]

I bought this book at the Raffles Hotel’s shop while visiting Singapore. The city was a very pleasant surprise, so vibrant with a peculiar mixture between the old and the new. This book shows how Singapore has evolve from a fishermen village to a skyscraper town. All photos included are fantastic, specially the portraits.

[Kailin]

Awesome compilation of old photos of Singapore. Very interesting book even for a Singaporean, couldn't help staring at each and every photo and reading up about them. It's like an enjoyable visit to the museum, all in the comfort of my own home.