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Questions and Answers
What is the traditional understanding of Singapore's history, and how is it being challenged?
The traditional understanding is that Singapore was founded by Raffles in 1819, but it is being challenged by archaeological discoveries that suggest a thriving community existed in the area over 700 years ago.
What did the archaeological excavations at Fort Canning uncover?
Thousands of Indian and Javanese beads, Chinese coins, and over half a million pieces of pottery.
What is Nasser's definition of being a native Singaporean?
Being part of the original community from the Singapore River, which predates Raffles' arrival.
What was Kampung Kuchai, and what happened to it?
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What skills did Nasser's grandfather possess?
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How did the colonial era affect the Orang Laut community?
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Study Notes
- The traditional understanding of Singapore's history is that it was founded by Raffles in 1819, but this narrative is being challenged.
- Archaeological excavations at Fort Canning have uncovered thousands of Indian and Javanese beads, Chinese coins, and over half a million pieces of pottery, indicating a large, diverse, and affluent community thrived in the area over 700 years ago.
- The discovery of this ancient community has changed the understanding of Singapore's past, highlighting the importance of recognizing the country's rich heritage beyond the colonial era.
- The Orang Laut, indigenous sea people, have witnessed Singapore's transformation over hundreds of years, but their nomadic lifestyle was disrupted by the colonial era.
- Nasser, an Orang Laut, defines being a native Singaporean as being part of the original community from the Singapore River, which predates Raffles' arrival.
- Kampung Kuchai, a village established by Nasser's grandfather, was originally comprised of 64 houses and was populated by the Orang Laut community.
- The village was eventually demolished, and residents were relocated to HDB flats, highlighting the importance of preserving the Orang Laut's cultural heritage.
- Nasser's grandfather was a skilled architect who would build houses and provide recommendations to the villagers on how to build their homes, showcasing the community's resourcefulness and skills.
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Description
Discover the untold story of Singapore's past, from ancient civilizations to the Orang Laut community, and how their cultural heritage was impacted by colonialism. Learn about the archaeological findings, indigenous communities, and personal stories that are rewriting the history of Singapore. Explore the importance of preserving cultural heritage and recognizing the country's rich history beyond the colonial era.
