While Singapore is relatively small in size and population, its impact
is considerably larger. This rising financial center has evolved from
its early days as an entrepot for Southeast Asia into the transport hub
and export-source for the world that it is today. More than this, it has
served as a model for many developing countries, showing just how much
can be achieved by hard work and intelligent policy even when there are
almost no natural resources or other evident sources of wealth
available.
The Encyclopedia of Singapore focuses on the period since the
island-nation's independence but also provides essential background on
the country's history. It includes brief entries on the leaders of the
struggle for independence and economic progress and includes many
cultural figures as well. Other entries describe important places,
institutions, and events. In addition, there is a brief chronology and
an introduction--to place events in their historical context--and a
bibliography for any reader who wants to learn more.