Marina Bay illuminated for Singapore''s 50th National Day (© Then Chih Wey/Xinhua/Alamy)

【August 9 2015】Since humans first settled here nearly 2,000 years ago, the islands that comprise modern-day Singapore have experienced dramatic changes, particularly in recent history. After occupation by Great Britain in the 19th century, the Japanese during World War II, and a short merger with Malaysia in 1962, Singapore gained independence on August 9, 1965.Explore breathtaking Gallery from the HuluTrip homepage over the past 5 years..