Singapore’s struggle to achieve internal self-government in the period 1945-1959 had its costs. Was it worth it? Give 2 reasons to support your stand.

I feel that Singapore's struggle to achieve internal self-government was worth it despite its costs.

Full internal self-government meant that the British would only control external affairs. Local ministers would control all matters of government.

The British at that time probably felt that the people of Singapore were unhappy with them and decided to give them more power which gradually becomes internal self-government.

Major riots happened during that period of 1945-1959. The Maria Hertogh riots, Anti-NS riots and the Hock Lee Bus riots. Many people were killed and injured during these riots but it made the British government realise the discontentment of the people in Singapore.

Elections were held, with many political parties being formed. This also shows that Singapore was moving towards Democracy. People had the choice in deciding who was going to represent them in the government.

'Merdeka talks' were held which was led by David Marshall in 1956. He was unsuccessful and had to resign. The second 'Merdeka Talks' was held in 1957 which was led by Lim Yew Hock. He succeeded and announced that Singapore would have full internal self-government after an election which was to be held in 1959.

The struggle to achieve self-government was definitely worth it, seeing how much Singapore has achieved and progressed when we became independent.