Exploring World War I from a peripheral location like Singapore can help us to better understand the global nature of the war itself in several ways. Firstly, it can provide us with a unique perspective on the war that is different from the dominant narratives from Europe and America. By examining the impact that the war had on Singapore and its surrounding regions, we can gain a more comprehensive understanding of how the war affected people from different parts of the world.
Secondly, studying Singapore's involvement in the war can also shed light on the global nature of the conflict. While Singapore itself was not a direct participant in the war, it was nonetheless deeply affected by the conflict due to its position as a key trading hub in the region. The war disrupted the flow of goods and people around the world, and Singapore was no exception. By studying how Singaporeans coped with shortages of food and other essential goods during the war, we can gain insight into the global nature of the conflict and the interconnectedness of world events.
Finally, examining World War I from a peripheral location like Singapore can also help us to better appreciate the cultural and social diversity of those affected by the war. While many of the dominant narratives of the war focus on the experiences of soldiers and leaders from Europe and America, the war had a profound impact on people from all over the world, including Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. By studying Singapore's role in the war, we can gain a greater appreciation for the diversity of experiences and perspectives of those affected by the conflict.