From Third World to First

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Few believed tiny Singapore would thrive after gaining independence in 1965, yet it has transformed into a bustling metropolis with the world’s top airline, best airport, busiest port, and fourth-highest per capita income. This remarkable change is narrated by Lee Kuan Yew, Singapore's founding father, who rose from a backdrop of colonialism, war devastation, and poverty. Through meticulous notes and unpublished records, Lee recounts the extraordinary efforts required to ensure the survival of this island city-state. He details how he and his cabinet dismantled the communist threat and embarked on nation-building, including constructing essential infrastructure, creating a unified army from a divided populace, eradicating colonial corruption, providing public housing, and establishing a national airline. Lee candidly discusses his political strategies and unorthodox views on democracy and human rights, always prioritizing correctness over political correctness. His influence is evident in Singapore's safe, orderly environment, which he proudly claims as a "nanny state." Beyond domestic affairs, Lee provides insightful analyses of global strategic issues and shares candid portraits of political figures like Margaret Thatcher and Ronald Reagan. He also reflects on his family life, particularly his partnership with his wife, Kwa Geok Choo, and their pride in their children. For over three decades, Lee has been a pivotal figure in