1.
There was an early settlement long before the arrival of Stamford Raffles. It was located between the mouth of the Singapore River and a small watercourse known today as Stamford Canal. What was the original name of this stream?
Correct Answer
D. Fresh Water Spring
Explanation
The original name of the stream located between the mouth of the Singapore River and Stamford Canal was Fresh Water Spring.
2.
When did the first junk transporting immigrants from China arrive in Singapore?
Correct Answer
B. 1821
Explanation
In 1821, the first junk transporting immigrants from China arrived in Singapore. This suggests that prior to this year, there were no documented instances of Chinese immigrants arriving in Singapore via junk boats. It marks the beginning of a significant wave of Chinese immigration to Singapore, which would have a lasting impact on the demographic and cultural makeup of the country.
3.
The earliest mosque in Singapore is believed to be:
Correct Answer
B. Omar mosque
Explanation
The correct answer is Omar mosque. The Omar mosque is believed to be the earliest mosque in Singapore. It was built in 1820 by the Arab Muslim community and is located in the Chinatown area. The mosque is named after Tengku Omar, a prominent Arab merchant who funded its construction. It is an important historical and cultural landmark in Singapore, reflecting the early Muslim presence in the country.
4.
The oldest Jewish synagogue is the Maghain Aboth built-in 1878. It is located on:
Correct Answer
B. Waterloo Street
Explanation
The correct answer is Waterloo Street. The Maghain Aboth synagogue, which is the oldest Jewish synagogue, was built in 1878 and is located on Waterloo Street.
5.
The Sikhs make up a small but significant proportion of the Indian population of Singapore. They began arriving in Singapore from as early as 1881. Committed to their religion, they set about establishing temples. Today, the Central Sikh Temple is an imposing building, capped by an impressive dome.
Where is it located?
Correct Answer
C. Towner Road
Explanation
The Central Sikh Temple is located on Towner Road in Singapore.
6.
It is interesting to know that it was a wealthy Arab Muslim who donated the land for two non-Muslim buildings in Singapore. One of them was:
Correct Answer
B. St Andrew's Cathedral
Explanation
St Andrew's Cathedral is the correct answer because it is one of the two non-Muslim buildings in Singapore that was donated land by a wealthy Arab Muslim. This fact is interesting because it highlights the diversity and inclusiveness of Singapore's history and the contributions made by individuals from different religious backgrounds.
7.
In 1875, the government bought over the old Parliament House for $15,000. What purpose, then, did it come to serve?
Correct Answer
D. Supreme Court of the colonial government
Explanation
The correct answer is "Supreme Court of the colonial government." This is because the government bought over the old Parliament House in 1875, indicating that it was used for an important government function. The Supreme Court is a significant institution that upholds the law and administers justice, making it a plausible explanation for the purpose of the old Parliament House.
8.
On what occasion was the bronze statue of Stamford Raffles moved from its original site to its present location in front of the Victoria Memorial Hall?
Correct Answer
C. Singapore's centenary celebrations
Explanation
The bronze statue of Stamford Raffles was moved from its original site to its present location in front of the Victoria Memorial Hall during Singapore's centenary celebrations.
9.
Today we are familiar with what is referred to as the Padang. It was, however, not known as Padang until 1906. What was the original name given to it by Stamford Raffles?
Correct Answer
D. The Plain
Explanation
Stamford Raffles originally named the area "The Plain" before it became known as Padang in 1906. This suggests that the area was likely a flat and open space, hence the name "The Plain".
10.
The Istana is today the official residence of the President of the Republic of Singapore.
The word means 'palace' in Malay. What was the name given to it when it was first built?
Correct Answer
D. Government House
Explanation
The correct answer is Government House. The Istana, which means 'palace' in Malay, was initially called Government House when it was first built.
11.
In which year was the Istana built?
Correct Answer
A. 1869
Explanation
The Istana was built in 1869.
12.
Who supervised the construction of the Istana?
Correct Answer
A. A J F McNair
Explanation
A J F McNair is the correct answer because he was the one who supervised the construction of the Istana.
13.
Where was Tan Tock Seng Hospital originally located?
Correct Answer
D. Pearl's Hill
Explanation
Tan Tock Seng Hospital was originally located at Pearl's Hill. This historical location in Singapore served as the hospital's first site before it was relocated to its current location in Novena. Pearl's Hill was chosen as the hospital's initial location due to its strategic position, providing easy access to the city center and various communities.
14.
The site at which City Hall stands today was once occupied by the homes of private individuals. It was an oversight that led to the land sale. Stamford Raffles had wanted the site reserved for administrative buildings. The private homes eventually gave way to City Hall. When was City Hall built?
Correct Answer
C. Between 1926 and 1929
Explanation
City Hall was built between 1926 and 1929. This can be inferred from the information given that the private homes were eventually replaced by City Hall, indicating that City Hall was built after the private homes were demolished.
15.
Who designed the Supreme Court Building?
Correct Answer
D. Dorrington Ward
Explanation
Dorrington Ward is the correct answer for the question "Who designed the Supreme Court Building?" The other options, George Coleman, Colonel Jackson, and Henry McCallum, are not the correct designers of the Supreme Court Building.
16.
Pulau Ubin was once of great value to the main island of Singapore because of a valuable item it could offer. What was that item?
Correct Answer
D. Granite
Explanation
Pulau Ubin was once of great value to the main island of Singapore because it offered granite. Granite is a valuable natural resource used in construction and building projects. The island's granite quarries provided a significant source of this material, which was in high demand for infrastructure development in Singapore.
17.
When did Raffles Hotel open for business?
Correct Answer
B. 1887
Explanation
Raffles Hotel opened for business in 1887.
18.
The Alsagoffs have always been a prominent family in Singapore. Their history can be traced back to 1824 when the first of them arrived in Singapore from Yemen, which is today south of Saudi Arabia. Beginning with trading in spices, the family went on to own land in different parts of Singapore and were engaged in various charitable activities. Who was the old patriarch of this family?
Correct Answer
A. Syed Abdul Raman Taha Alsagoff
Explanation
The correct answer is Syed Abdul Raman Taha Alsagoff. The explanation is that the passage states that the Alsagoffs have always been a prominent family in Singapore and their history can be traced back to 1824 when the first of them arrived in Singapore from Yemen. This indicates that Syed Abdul Raman Taha Alsagoff is the old patriarch of the family, as he would have been the first member to arrive in Singapore.
19.
What was the name given to Keppel Harbour when it began to service ocean going vessels?
Correct Answer
B. New Harbour
Explanation
The correct answer is "New Harbour." This name was given to Keppel Harbour when it started servicing ocean-going vessels.
20.
Keppel Harbour was named after Captain Henry Keppel. Who was he?
Correct Answer
C. Admiral of the British Navy
Explanation
Captain Henry Keppel was an Admiral of the British Navy. He served in the Royal Navy and held various high-ranking positions, including commanding several naval expeditions. He was known for his contributions to the British Navy, particularly during the 19th century. As a result of his achievements and influence, Keppel Harbour in Singapore was named after him as a tribute to his naval career.
21.
Singapore's only suspension bridge is the
Correct Answer
C. Cavenagh Bridge
Explanation
Cavenagh Bridge is the correct answer because it is the only suspension bridge in Singapore. The other options, Read Bridge, Ord Bridge, and Anderson Bridge, are not suspension bridges.
22.
Which was the first bridge to be built across the Singapore River?
Correct Answer
A. Elgin Bridge
Explanation
Elgin Bridge is the correct answer as it was the first bridge to be built across the Singapore River. It was constructed in 1822 and named after Lord Elgin, who was the Governor-General of India at that time. The bridge played a significant role in connecting the two sides of the river and facilitating transportation and trade in Singapore.
23.
What was the very first name of Fort Canning?
Correct Answer
D. Forbidden Hill
Explanation
Fort Canning was originally known as Forbidden Hill because it was believed to be the sacred burial ground of ancient Malay rulers. The hill was considered off-limits to the general public and was surrounded by dense vegetation, adding to its mysterious and forbidden aura. Over time, the hill was renamed Fort Canning when the British built a military fort on the site in the early 19th century. However, its original name of Forbidden Hill still holds historical significance and is often used to refer to the area.
24.
It was not always the motorised vehicle that served as a means of transport in Singapore. In the days before and even after the arrival of Stamford Raffles, what was the standard mode of transport?
Correct Answer
B. The bullock cart
Explanation
In the days before and even after the arrival of Stamford Raffles, the standard mode of transport in Singapore was the bullock cart. This traditional form of transportation involved a cart pulled by a bullock, which was commonly used to transport goods and people. The bullock cart was a common sight on the streets of Singapore during that time period, serving as an important means of transportation for the local population.
25.
Which of these schools would figure as the oldest girls' school in Singapore?
Correct Answer
A. St Margaret's Secondary School
Explanation
St Margaret's Secondary School would figure as the oldest girls' school in Singapore because it was established in 1842, making it the oldest girls' school in the country. The other schools mentioned, CHIJ Secondary School, Nanyang Girls' School, and Singapore Chinese Girls' School, were established at later dates.
26.
Anglo Chinese School was founded by Rev William F Oldham in 1886. Where did it have its first home?
Correct Answer
C. Amoy Street
Explanation
Anglo Chinese School had its first home on Amoy Street. This information is not explicitly mentioned in the question, but it is implied that the school had a location when it was founded in 1886. Since the other options (Cross Street, Club Street, and Pickering Street) are not mentioned in the question, it can be inferred that Amoy Street is the correct answer.
27.
When was the Singapore Cricket Club established?
Correct Answer
A. 1852
Explanation
The Singapore Cricket Club was established in 1852.
28.
Tan Kim Seng was an early immigrant who was not only a successful businessman but also a very civic minded person. What is he best remembered for in terms of his community contribution?
Correct Answer
D. Donated money to pump water to the city centre
Explanation
Tan Kim Seng is best remembered for his community contribution of donating money to pump water to the city centre. This contribution was significant as it helped to improve the living conditions of the community by providing them with access to clean and safe water. This initiative would have had a direct impact on the health and well-being of the people living in the city centre, making it a valuable and lasting contribution.
29.
What was the actual date on which Stamford Raffles signed a treaty with Temenggong Abdu'r Rahman to establish a trading post on the island of Singapore?
Correct Answer
A. 30 January 1819
Explanation
On 30 January 1819, Stamford Raffles signed a treaty with Temenggong Abdu'r Rahman to establish a trading post on the island of Singapore.
30.
Stamford Raffles obtained the approval of the Temenggong to establish only a trading station on the island. It was another British officer who secured the entire island and the surrounding islands for the British Crown. Who was this officer?
Correct Answer
B. John Crawfurd
Explanation
John Crawfurd was the British officer who secured the entire island and the surrounding islands for the British Crown. Stamford Raffles had obtained the approval of the Temenggong to establish only a trading station on the island, but it was Crawfurd who expanded British control over the area.
31.
Stamford Raffles is said to have been devastated when his first wife passed away. Though much older than him and the subject of some gossip that he married her to win the favour of his superior who was her father, he loved her dearly and was a broken man when he lost her. What was her name?
Correct Answer
C. Olivia Fancourt
Explanation
Stamford Raffles' first wife's name was Olivia Fancourt. Despite the gossip surrounding their marriage, Raffles loved her deeply and was devastated when she passed away.
32.
Where might one find the burial place of Stamford Raffles?
Correct Answer
D. In Hendon, England
Explanation
Stamford Raffles, the founder of modern Singapore, is buried in Hendon, England. This is where he passed away and his final resting place.
33.
During the second half of the 18th century the traders of the East India Company were attracted to the trade with China. However, they had nothing to offer the Chinese in exchange for their produce. Initially, they paid for them in silver but this was not in the interests of China. What did they come up with as a solution?
Correct Answer
D. Opium
Explanation
During the second half of the 18th century, the traders of the East India Company faced a problem when trading with China. They had nothing to offer in exchange for Chinese produce and initially paid in silver, which was not beneficial for China. As a solution, they came up with the idea of trading opium. Opium was in high demand in China and became a valuable commodity for the East India Company to trade with the Chinese. This trade eventually led to the Opium Wars between China and Britain.
34.
Three of the earliest British possessions in Malaya were combined into one administrative unit, known as the Straits Settlements. When did this take place?
Correct Answer
A. 1826
Explanation
In 1826, three of the earliest British possessions in Malaya were combined into one administrative unit, known as the Straits Settlements.
35.
Who were the main traders transporting the goods and produce of Southeast Asia after Stamford Raffles set up a trading post in Singapore?
Correct Answer
B. Bugis
Explanation
After Stamford Raffles established a trading post in Singapore, the main traders transporting the goods and produce of Southeast Asia were the Bugis. The Bugis people, who are an ethnic group from Indonesia, were known for their maritime skills and expertise in trading. They had a strong presence in the region and played a crucial role in facilitating trade between Southeast Asia and other parts of the world.
36.
Many Chinese from different dialect groups and provinces of China were attracted to Singapore and Malaya. They hoped to escape the harsh realities of life in their mother country. The majority were of the Taoist and Buddhist faiths. One dialect group that was predominantly Catholic came to be concentrated at the extreme end of Upper Serangoon Road and Ponggol. Which was that dialect group?
Correct Answer
A. Teochew
Explanation
Many Chinese immigrants from different dialect groups and provinces of China migrated to Singapore and Malaya to seek a better life. The majority of them practiced Taoism and Buddhism, but there was one dialect group that was predominantly Catholic. This dialect group settled at the extreme end of Upper Serangoon Road and Ponggol, and they were the Teochew people.
37.
The majority of the immigrants from India were southern Indians. From the north came Sikhs, Sindhis and Gujeratis. The Sikhs imported and traded in cotton goods. Where did they first set up shop in Singapore?
Correct Answer
D. High Street
Explanation
The correct answer is High Street. The Sikhs first set up shop in Singapore on High Street.
38.
Who was the Japanese officer who signed the order surrendering Singapore to the British in 1945?
Correct Answer
B. Itagaki Seishiro
Explanation
Itagaki Seishiro was the Japanese officer who signed the order surrendering Singapore to the British in 1945.
39.
After the War in 19i45, further demands were made that led to the setting up of a commission in 1953, the recommendations of which were to pave the way for internal self -government for Singapore. What was the name of this commission?
Correct Answer
B. Rendel Commission
Explanation
The Rendel Commission was set up in 1953 after the War in 1945 to address the demands for internal self-government in Singapore. The commission made recommendations that would pave the way for Singapore to have its own self-government.
40.
The 1953 Commission also recommended the creation of a Legislative Assembly with a majority of elected members. This led to elections to the Legislative Council and the granting of limited internal self government to Singapore. When was this achieved?
Correct Answer
B. 1955
Explanation
In 1955, the recommendation made by the 1953 Commission to create a Legislative Assembly with a majority of elected members was achieved. This resulted in elections being held for the Legislative Council and Singapore being granted limited internal self-government.
41.
Mr Lee Kuan Yew teamed up with Dr Goh Keng Swee, Mr K M Byrne and Dr Toh Chin Chye to spearhead a move for the establishment of an independent socialist Malaya and Singapore. He began by making inroads into labour unions, serving as adviser to some of them. In 1952, a strike by some government workers took place. He was the adviser of their union. It is believed this thrust Mr Lee Kuan Yew onto the political scene. What was the name of the union that called the strike?
Correct Answer
A. Postal and Telecommunications Uniformed Staff Union
42.
When was ASEAN founded?
Correct Answer
C. July 1967
Explanation
ASEAN, which stands for the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, was founded in July 1967. This regional organization was established with the goal of promoting economic growth, social progress, and cultural development among its member countries. The formation of ASEAN aimed to foster cooperation and collaboration among Southeast Asian nations and enhance regional stability and peace.
43.
Raffles' statue erected on the landing site of the Singapore River was installed in
Correct Answer
B. 1972
Explanation
The correct answer is 1972. This suggests that the statue of Raffles was installed on the landing site of the Singapore River in 1972.
44.
The original bronze Raffles was designed by
Correct Answer
B. T Woolner
45.
The oldest building still standing in Singapore is
Correct Answer
D. The old Parliament House
Explanation
The given answer, "the old Parliament House," is correct because it is the oldest building still standing in Singapore. The old Parliament House was built in 1827 and served as the seat of the government until 1999. It is a significant historical landmark and an iconic symbol of Singapore's colonial past. The building's architectural style and historical importance make it a popular tourist attraction and a reminder of Singapore's political history.
46.
Fort Fullerton was demolished in
Correct Answer
B. 1873
Explanation
Fort Fullerton was demolished in 1873. This means that the fort was destroyed or taken down in that year.
47.
The old Fullerton Building was completed in
Correct Answer
B. 1928
Explanation
The correct answer is 1928. This means that the old Fullerton Building was completed in 1928.
48.
The second St Andrew's Cathedral built in the 1870s was designed by
Correct Answer
A. R MacpHerson
Explanation
R MacPherson is the correct answer because he was the architect who designed the second St Andrew's Cathedral built in the 1870s. The other options, G D Coleman, Frank Dorrington Ward, and John Turnbull Thomson, were not involved in the design of the cathedral.
49.
The Klais pipe organ with 4740 pipes from the Esplanade - Theatres on the Bay is located in the
Correct Answer
A. Concert Hall
Explanation
The correct answer is Concert Hall because the Klais pipe organ with 4740 pipes from the Esplanade - Theatres on the Bay is located in the Concert Hall.
50.
Which venue of the Esplanade-Theatres on the Bay can seat 2000 people?
Correct Answer
B. The Theatre
Explanation
The correct answer is The Theatre. The Concert Hall is a different venue that can seat more than 2000 people. The Theatre Studio is a smaller venue, not capable of accommodating 2000 people. The Jendela is not a venue, but rather a visual arts space within the Esplanade-Theatres on the Bay. Therefore, The Theatre is the only option that fits the criteria of being a venue that can seat 2000 people.