Founded in the 14th century, Malacca is the oldest city in Malaysia and by controlling the Straits of Malacca, it controlled the most important sea route between East and West. The Portuguese conquered the city in 1511. After them came the Dutch and then the British. Not until Malaysia gained its independence in 1956 was Malacca finally free of foreigner domination, but by then Singapore had become the major port in this part of the world.