Postage stamps and postal history of Singapore British colonial rule, Singapore grew in importance rapidly becoming a major port city. During World War II, Singapore was occupied by Japan from 1942 to 1945. After the war, Singapore reverted to British control, with increasing levels of self-government being granted, culminating in Singapore's merger with the Federation of Malaya to form Malaysia in 1963. Singapore became an independent republic on 9 August 1965. Singapore was originally part of the Straits Settlements and used the colony's stamps. During World War II, Singapore was occupied by the Japanese between 1942 and 1945. After the surrender of the Japanese Occupation forces at
Declarations of war during World War I 1907 (or Hague II). For the diplomatic maneuvering behind these events, which led to hostilities between nations during World War I, see the article entitled Diplomatic history of World War I. Below is a table showing the "Outbreaks of Wars between Nations" which occurred during World War I. Indicated are the dates (during the immediate build-up to, or during the course of, World War I), from which a "de facto" state of war existed between nations. The table shows both the "Initiator Nation(s)" and the nation at which the aggression was aimed, or "Targeted Nation(s)". Events listed include those in