The People's Action Party co-founded by Lee Kuan Yew began its rule of Singapore six years before its independence half a century ago.

Lee was the nation's first prime minister.

He spearheaded the island's independence from Britain in 1959.

Singapore joined the post-colonial Federation of Malaysia, a grouping of former British territories in 1963.

When it was expelled two years later after violent ethic clashes Lee was visibly upset. 

"You see, the whole of my adult life...I have believed in Malaysia, in merger and the unity of these two characters, you know, it's a people connected by geography, economics and ties of kinship...would you mind if we stop for a while."

Lee led Singapore's rapid rise from British tropical outpost to global trade and financial centre.

He stepped down in 1990 as the world's longest-serving prime minister.

He stayed on in the cabinet until 2011. He was a member of parliament until his death.

Under Lee Singapore's economy has flourished.

Political opposition and an independent media have not been allowed to thrive, however, drawing criticism for heavy-handed government.

Even so, Singapore, marking the 50th anniversary of its birth this year, is hailed as one of Asia's most liveable and corruption-free nations.