The Chinese were the largest ethnic group in colonial Singapore, making up over 75% of the population. The majority of Chinese immigrants came from the southern provinces of China, such as Guangdong and Fujian. They were mostly male, and they worked in a variety of jobs, including coolies, laborers, and merchants. Chinese women were often employed as domestic servants or prostitutes.
Life for the Chinese in colonial Singapore was often difficult. Most of them lived in overcrowded slums, and they had to work long hours for low wages. Many Chinese immigrants also faced discrimination from the British and other ethnic groups.
Malays
The Malays were the second largest ethnic group in colonial Singapore, making up about 15% of the population. The majority of Malays were indigenous to the Malay Peninsula, and they were mostly Muslim. Malays were traditionally employed in agriculture, fishing, and trade.
Life for the Malays in colonial Singapore was also difficult. They faced discrimination from the British and Chinese, and they were often denied access to education and other opportunities. Many Malays also lived in poverty, and they were often unable to afford basic necessities.
Indians
The Indians were the third largest ethnic group in colonial Singapore, making up about 5% of the population. The majority of Indians came from southern India, and they were mostly Hindu or Muslim. Indians were employed in a variety of jobs, including coolies, laborers, and merchants.
Life for the Indians in colonial Singapore was also difficult. They faced discrimination from the British and other ethnic groups, and they were often denied access to education and other opportunities. Many Indians also lived in poverty, and they were often unable to afford basic necessities.
Europeans
The Europeans were a small minority in colonial Singapore, making up only about 1% of the population. The majority of Europeans were British, and they held most of the power in the colony. Europeans were employed in a variety of jobs, including government officials, merchants, and plantation owners.
Life for the Europeans in colonial Singapore was much more comfortable than it was for the other ethnic groups. They lived in spacious homes, and they had access to the best education and other opportunities. Europeans also had a much higher standard of living than the other ethnic groups.
