List of governors of Singapore


The Governors of Singapore were the political leaders of Singapore during its pre-independence phase in the history of Singapore.

Residents of Singapore (1819–1826)

The Residents and Commandants of Singapore ruled the British colony that is today the Republic of Singapore. The men that held this position governed Singapore from 1819 to 1826, on behalf of the British East India Company.

Governors of the Straits Settlements (1826–1942)

The Governors of the Straits Settlements ruled the Straits Settlements. The men that held this position governed the Straits Settlements from 1826 to 1946, on behalf of the British East India Company, the India Office and the Colonial Office .
In the absence of the governor, the chief secretary immediately became the acting governor of the Straits Settlements. The chief secretaries were historically drawn from the Colonial Office or British military.

Japanese Occupation (1942 to 1945)

During the Japanese occupation of Singapore, there were 2 mayors and 5 military administrators appointed to Syonan-to.

Governors of the Straits Settlements (1945–1946)

Governors of Singapore (1946–1959)

The Governors of Singapore ruled Singapore. The men that held this position governed the Crown Colony of Singapore from 1946 to 1959, on behalf of the Colonial Office until Singapore gained self-governance in 1959 in where the Office of the Governor was abolished.