Lee Kuan Yew

1st Prime Minister of Singapore

Lee Kuan Yew - 1st Prime Minister of Singapore
Born

September 16th, 1923
101 years ago

Died

March 23rd, 2015
10 years ago — 91 years old

Category

Leaders & Politicians

Country

Singapore

Links & References

Served as Singapore's first Prime Minister from 1959 to 1990, leading the nation through its transition from a British colonial outpost to an independent state. Played a key role in the establishment of the People’s Action Party and implemented policies that transformed Singapore’s economy, promoting industrialization and attracting foreign investment. His government emphasized multiracialism and economic pragmatism, contributing to Singapore's reputation as a global financial hub. After stepping down as Prime Minister, remained an influential figure in Singaporean politics as Senior Minister and later Minister Mentor until 2011. Author of multiple books outlining his vision for governance and social harmony.

Transformed Singapore’s economy

Served as Prime Minister for 31 years

Promoted multiracialism and stability

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