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:
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.
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