The Great Hokkien-Teochew Riot of 1854

Today, Hokkiens and Teochews in Singapore are almost indistinct, mainly because everyone speaks English or Mandarin.

But in 1854, dialect groups were "badges" of identity and easily divided the respective groups, enough for them to take sides against the other:

What I found ironic about Teochews fighting Hokkiens is that this riot had to be contained with Indian soldiers (Sepoys), Ang Mos (Royal Marines, and Europeans recruited as Special Constables), and even Malays (from the Temenggong of Johor). 

In modern Singapore, can you imagine Teochews and Hokkiens rioting, and you need foreign workers from India, Malaysian workers and volunteer Ang Mos to contain the rioters?

We have come a long ways... I hope.