For you to successfully complete your assignment, answer the following essay question.
As a historical force, globalisation has had an immense impact on our modern world. Choose
one product or object that you encounter in your everyday life and discuss how its history has
been shaped by globalisation. Think of any familiar fashion, food, technology, or cultural
examples.
To help you answer this question, follow these steps.
1) Understand Globalisation as a historical force.
2) Choose a product you use every day.
3) Explore the history of your chosen product.
4) Connect your chosen product to your historical understanding of globalisation.
Possible examples to focus your assignment on, include: African wax print, sneakers, corn (mealies),
coffee, telephones, automobiles, snuff, or Amapiano music.
You must use the following prescribed reading when answering your essay question:
1) Steger, Manfred. Globalization: A Very Short Introduction. Third Edition. Oxford: Oxford
University Press, 2013.
1
Globalisation is a historical force that has profoundly shaped our modern world. It refers to the increasing interconnectedness and interdependence of countries and people around the globe, facilitated by advances in communication, transportation, and technology. This process has had a significant impact on various aspects of our lives, including the products we use daily. One such product that has been heavily influenced by globalisation is coffee.
Coffee is an integral part of many people's daily routine, with millions consuming it worldwide. Its history can be traced back to the 9th century in Ethiopia, where the coffee plant was first discovered. From there, it spread to Yemen and eventually to the rest of the Arab world. Initially, coffee was consumed locally in these regions and was considered a luxury item.
The globalisation of coffee began during the 17th century when European colonial powers established plantations in various parts of the world, including Africa, Asia, and the Americas. These plantations were primarily established to meet the growing demand for coffee in Europe. The geographical distribution of coffee production expanded, and with it came the creation of global trade networks.
The rise of coffee as a global commodity was also influenced by technological advancements during the 19th century, such as the invention of steamships and railroads. These developments facilitated the transport of coffee beans from remote plantations to consumption centers around the world. As a result, coffee became more accessible and affordable, leading to a significant increase in consumption.
Globalisation played a crucial role in shaping the coffee industry as it influenced the taste preferences of consumers. For instance, the rise of specialty coffee in recent years can be attributed to globalisation. Increasingly, consumers have become more knowledgeable and demanding about the origins and quality of the coffee they consume, leading to the establishment of direct trade relationships between coffee growers and buyers. This emphasis on sustainable and fair trade practices has become a central aspect of the coffee industry, responding to the demands of a global consumer market.
Furthermore, globalisation has led to the creation of multinational corporations that dominate the coffee industry today. Companies like Starbucks and Nestle have expanded their operations globally, establishing a ubiquitous presence in different countries. They have also played a role in promoting coffee culture and consumption patterns worldwide, contributing to the globalisation of coffee.
In conclusion, coffee is a product that has been profoundly shaped by globalisation. The interconnectedness of different regions, facilitated by advancements in transportation, technology, and trade, has transformed coffee from a local luxury item to a global commodity. The expansion of coffee plantations, the development of trade networks, and the establishment of multinational corporations have all played a crucial role in shaping the history and consumption patterns of coffee. The story of coffee exemplifies the transformative power of globalisation on everyday products and their impact on our modern world.
References:
Steger, Manfred. Globalization: A Very Short Introduction. Third Edition. Oxford: Oxford University Press, 2013.
Step 1: Understand Globalisation as a historical force.
To start your assignment, it is important to have a clear understanding of globalisation as a historical force. You can refer to the prescribed reading, "Globalization: A Very Short Introduction" by Manfred Steger. This book provides a comprehensive overview of the topic and will give you a solid foundation to discuss globalisation and its impact on the modern world.
Step 2: Choose a product you use every day.
Next, choose a product that you encounter in your everyday life. The product can be related to fashion, food, technology, or culture. Some examples suggested in the assignment prompt include African wax print, sneakers, corn (mealies), coffee, telephones, automobiles, snuff, or Amapiano music. Select a product that you are interested in and one that you feel has been significantly influenced by globalisation.
Step 3: Explore the history of your chosen product.
Once you have selected a product, research its history. Look for information on how it originated, its evolution over time, and any major changes or developments it has undergone. Consider factors such as the geographical origins of the product, its cultural significance, and how it has been influenced by global trade and exchange.
Step 4: Connect your chosen product to your historical understanding of globalisation.
Finally, connect your chosen product to your historical understanding of globalisation. Analyze how globalisation has impacted the production, distribution, and consumption of the product. Consider the role of international trade, cultural exchange, technological advancements, and the influence of multinational corporations. Discuss how globalisation has shaped the history and development of the product, as well as its current prevalence in the modern world.
By following these steps, you will be able to successfully complete your assignment and provide a well-researched and comprehensive answer to the given essay question. Remember to use the prescribed reading and any additional sources to support your arguments and provide evidence for the influence of globalisation on your chosen product.
To successfully complete your assignment, follow these steps to answer the essay question:
1) Understand Globalisation as a historical force:
Start by reading the prescribed reading, "Globalization: A Very Short Introduction" by Manfred Steger. This will provide you with a comprehensive overview of the concept of globalization as a historical force. It will explain how globalization has transformed economies, cultures, politics, and societies around the world.
2) Choose a product you use every day:
Think about a product that you encounter or use in your everyday life. Consider products from various categories such as fashion, food, technology, or culture. The examples provided in the assignment prompt, such as African wax print, sneakers, corn (mealies), coffee, telephones, automobiles, snuff, or Amapiano music, are good starting points.
3) Explore the history of your chosen product:
Research the history of your chosen product. Look for information on its origins, development, and how it has evolved over time. Consider the different countries and regions involved in its production, distribution, and consumption. Look for key events, innovations, and influences that have shaped its history.
4) Connect your chosen product to your historical understanding of globalization:
Analyze how globalization has influenced the production, distribution, and consumption of your chosen product. Consider factors such as trade networks, technological advancements, cultural exchange, and economic interdependence. Identify the ways in which globalization has impacted the product's availability, affordability, design, marketing, and cultural significance. Discuss how the product's history is intertwined with the broader narrative of globalization.
When writing your essay, organize your thoughts logically and provide evidence to support your arguments. Use the prescribed reading and other relevant sources to augment your understanding and strengthen your analysis. It's important to include a clear introduction, body paragraphs with well-developed arguments, and a conclusion that summarizes your main points and provides a thoughtful reflection on the topic.
Remember to cite your sources properly using an appropriate citation style, such as APA or MLA, to give credit to the authors and avoid plagiarism.