1960s in Hong Kong
Encyclopedia : 1 : 19 : 196 : 1960s in Hong Kong
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Economy
Industry
Hong Kong's industry, following the developments in the 1950s, shifted to electronics industry and clothing industry. The living standard in Hong Kong was rising steadily at that time, however still under development. This ensured a supply of cheap and willing labour, while the technological complexity can be clearly seen, in comparison to the wigs, plastics, and toys industry in the 1950s.Hong Kong's development was recognized as it was one of Asia's Four Little Dragons (亞洲四小龍), with Singapore, South Korea, and Taiwan. They all produced competitive goods, cheap with high quality.
Culture
Hong Kong Festival
In 6 Dec to 15 Dec 1969, the first Hong Kong Festival was launched after seven months of preparation work and 4 million HK Dollar funding. It was originated after the 1967 Riot, aiming at providing a way of entertainment for Hong Kong people to unleash their energies to prevent them from devoting their leisure times to calls of communists for other riots. The number of participants were more than 500,000, including foreign tourists.The activities were based on a theme about Chinese traditional culture, with carival, ball, fashion show, singing contest, beauty contest, etc. Exhibitions of stamp, antique, artwork and flowers were also included. The opening ceremony featured a switch-on ceremony in Tsim Sha Tsui, and a parade in Nathan Road
Social issues
Hong Kong people lived under a strong willingness to bear sufferings. This was slightly compensated by their close relationship within the community, and cheerful talks in their spare times.The 1967 Riot
Despite the high morale in the majority of the society, a few riots were featured in the 1960s. They were triggered by some certain incidents, causing the affected part of the community to start the riot, and spread rapidly due to the close social relationship.
Community life
Natural disasters
Hong Kong suffered from drought and typhoons in different years in the 1960s.Drought
In 1963 and 1967, serious droughts affected Hong Kong. Water supply was unable to support the needs of the rapid population growth. So, the government introduced water restriction policy. In 1963 and 67, there were periods when water supply was restricted to four hours per four days. People had to save water for four days' uses.Typhoon
In 1960, Typhoon Mary affected Hong Kong, causing 45 deaths and 127 injuries. It also destroyed about 10,000 people's homes.In 1962, Typhoon Wanda affected Hong Kong, causing 130 deaths. 72,000 people were homeless due to this typhoon. It was one of the most disastrous typhoons ever affected Hong Kong.
Baby boom
The 1960's was also a time of the post-war baby boom. This maintained a large workforce into the 70's and 80's. By the 21st Century, this generation inevitably became the subject of an ageing population.
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