The People's Action Party (PAP) was founded in Singapore by a coalition of young leaders who sought to challenge British colonial rule and address societal issues faced by locals. Notable figures in the party's formation included Lee Kuan Yew, who would later become Singapore's first Prime Minister, and Toh Chin Chye. The party's vision was deeply rooted in establishing a democratic society, promoting social justice, and achieving self-governance for Singapore. Their initial focus encompassed alleviating poverty, workers' rights, and employing anti-colonial rhetoric to galvanize public support.

The establishment meeting took place at the Victoria Memorial Hall in Singapore, attended by various activists, intellectuals, and citizens from diverse backgrounds. The founding members aimed to attract a broad coalition that included labor unions and student groups, utilizing grassroots mobilization to strengthen their influence. The PAP’s program emphasized democratic socialism, contrasting sharply with the existing political landscape dominated by conservative and colonial interests.

In just a few years, the PAP began to gain traction among the populace, resulting in significant electoral successes. This momentum eventually led to Singapore's push for self-governance, and the PAP would become the party that transformed Singapore's political and economic landscape. The party's effective organization and ability to address the needs of the citizens quickly positioned it as the dominant force in Singaporean politics for decades to come.