The Japanese invasion of Malaya in December 1941 is one of the more heavily studied military campaigns in World War II. It has led to much controversy over how the British, Australian and Indian troops, well prepared and numerically superior to their Japanese opponents, could so quickly lose the initiative, and then slowly and inexorably lose the campaign. With reinforcements arriving throughout much of the fighting, Arthur Percival, the British commander, was unwilling to risk his forces in a single battle which would determine the victor. After the Allied success at Kampar, followed by a withdrawal, the disaster at Slim River led to the Japanese outmanoeuvring their opponents in Johore, leading to the final battle in Singapore. As well as using accounts by many of the major participants, The Fall of Singapore incorporates recent research and thinking, also showing the effects of the fighting on the many Chinese, Malay and Indian civilians - so often neglected in military histories.

In spite of Singapore's small size, it has long had a major impact on the world because of its geographical location and its wealth. The British initially made the island a major port for the shipping of goods and later as an airline hub for the region. These factors, along with a steady government, have helped to contribute to the country's affluence. This multicultural, multiracial, and multi-religious island-nation is the envy of many countries in the world, which have tried to emulate the economic success of Singapore. The new edition of the Historical Dictionary of Singapore has been completely rewritten since the first edition was released 20 years ago. It relates the history of this country through a chronology, an introductory essay, an expansive bibliography, and over 500 cross-referenced dictionary entries on significant persons, events, places, organizations, and other aspects of Singapore history from the earliest times to the present.

While Singapore is relatively small in size and population, its impact is considerably larger. This rising financial center has evolved from its early days as an entrepot for Southeast Asia into the transport hub and export-source for the world that it is today. More than this, it has served as a model for many developing countries, showing just how much can be achieved by hard work and intelligent policy even when there are almost no natural resources or other evident sources of wealth available. The Encyclopedia of Singapore focuses on the period since the island-nation's independence but also provides essential background on the country's history. It includes brief entries on the leaders of the struggle for independence and economic progress and includes many cultural figures as well. Other entries describe important places, institutions, and events. In addition, there is a brief chronology and an introduction-to place events in their historical context-and a bibliography for any reader who wants to learn more.