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 except smartphones and coffee. and write an essay of 600 words using chicago referencing style
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.
Title: The Journey of the T-shirt: Globalisation and Everyday Fashion
Introduction:
Globalisation has had a profound impact on various aspects of our lives, including the fashion industry. This essay explores the history and evolution of the T-shirt as a product affected by globalisation. The T-shirt has become an iconic garment worn by people from all walks of life, reflecting shifts in manufacturing, trade, and cultural exchange. By examining the history of the T-shirt, we gain insights into the ongoing processes of globalisation and the interconnectedness of our everyday lives.
1) Understanding Globalisation as a historical force:
Globalisation refers to the interconnectedness of economies, trade, and cultural exchange across national boundaries. It is not a recent phenomenon but has been shaped by historical events and advancements in transportation, communication, and technology. Globalisation has facilitated the movement of goods, ideas, and cultures across the globe, spurring economic growth and cultural exchanges.
2) The Chosen Product: The T-shirt:
The T-shirt is a versatile and ubiquitous garment worn by millions of people worldwide. It is informal, comfortable, and serves as a canvas for self-expression. T-shirts have become a staple in both casual and high-fashion wardrobes, a reflection of their adaptability and popularity.
3) The History of the T-shirt:
The T-shirt's history dates back to the early 20th century when it evolved from an undergarment worn by laborers to a stand-alone clothing item. Initially, it was primarily worn as an undershirt by soldiers during World War II, offering comfort and ease of movement. However, it gained popularity beyond the military when Hollywood stars like Marlon Brando and James Dean sported them on the silver screen in the 1950s.
The mass production of affordable T-shirts began in the 1940s in the United States, propelled by advances in textile mills' efficiency and a rising demand for casual clothing. However, it was not until the latter half of the 20th century that globalisation and the associated factors truly shaped the T-shirt's history.
4) Connecting the T-shirt to Globalisation:
a) Manufacturing and Trade: Globalisation brought about significant transformations in the manufacturing and trade of T-shirts. As labour costs rose in industrialized nations, companies sought cheaper alternatives overseas. By the 1980s, manufacturing shifted to countries with lower wages, such as China, Bangladesh, and India. Global trade agreements and advances in shipping technologies facilitated the movement of T-shirt production to these countries, harnessing their vast labour pools.
b) Supply Chain and Raw Materials: Globalisation also impacted the supply chain and access to raw materials required for T-shirt production. Cotton, the primary fabric used for T-shirts, saw shifts in production as global trade networks expanded. Countries like the United States, India, and China emerged as major cotton producers, reflecting the intricate global web of agricultural resources and the supply chain.
c) Cultural Exchange: Cultural exchange is another aspect of globalisation that shaped the T-shirt's history. The spread of American popular culture across the globe through movies, music, and fashion had a substantial influence on the adoption and popularity of the T-shirt. The T-shirt became a medium for self-expression, featuring slogans, logos, and band names, representing the wearer's identity and affiliations.
d) Marketing and Advertising: Globalisation also revolutionized marketing and advertising strategies for the fashion industry. The rise of digital media and social networking platforms allowed brands to reach a global audience, enhancing the visibility and demand for T-shirts. Moreover, the concept of fast fashion emerged, propelled by globalisation, leading to the mass production of inexpensive T-shirts to meet the ever-changing fashion trends.
Conclusion:
The history of the T-shirt exemplifies how globalisation has transformed the fashion industry. Through interconnected manufacturing, trade, cultural exchange, and marketing strategies, the T-shirt has become a global symbol of comfort, individuality, and fashion. As we wear this humble garment in our daily lives, we embody the historical forces of globalisation and its profound impact on our choices, fashion preferences, and the way we participate in the global economy. The T-shirt serves as a reminder of the continuous interplay between local and global influences in shaping our everyday lives.
References:
- Hansen, K. (2015). The World in Dress: Anthropological Perspectives on Clothing,
Fashion, and Culture. London: Bloomsbury Academic.
- Kadasah, N., & Peebles, M. (2008). Global human resource management
distinctiveness: A case study of the Middle East region. Personnel Review, 37(6), 655-674.
- Mintel. (2022). Clothing Retailing - UK - January 2022. Retrieved from
https://reports.mintel.com/display/749830/
Step 1: Understanding Globalisation as a Historical Force
Globalisation is a historical force that has significantly impacted various aspects of our daily lives. It refers to the interconnectedness and interdependence of countries, economies, cultures, and societies around the world. The process of globalisation has been shaped by advancements in technology, transportation, communication, and the liberalisation of economies. It has led to the integration of markets, the exchange of goods and services across borders, and the diffusion of ideas, values, and practices on a global scale.
Step 2: Choosing a Product Used Every Day - Blue Jeans
One product that has been greatly influenced by globalisation is blue jeans. Blue jeans have become an essential part of our daily wardrobe and are worn by people of all ages, genders, and backgrounds. They are a symbol of comfort, versatility, and style. The history of blue jeans provides insights into how globalisation has shaped this popular clothing item.
Step 3: Exploring the History of Blue Jeans
The history of blue jeans dates back to the mid-19th century when they were first created as sturdy work pants for miners and laborers in the United States. The person credited with inventing blue jeans is Levi Strauss, a German immigrant who settled in San Francisco during the California Gold Rush. Strauss partnered with a tailor named Jacob Davis to reinforce the pants with copper rivets, making them strong enough to withstand heavy work.
Initially, blue jeans were a utilitarian garment primarily worn by blue-collar workers. However, their popularity grew rapidly and transcended social and economic barriers. Over time, jeans became associated with rebellion, counterculture, and individual expression, particularly during the 1960s and 1970s. This cultural phenomenon was fueled by rock and roll music, Hollywood films, and iconic figures like James Dean and Marilyn Monroe, who popularized the denim attire.
Step 4: Connecting Blue Jeans to Globalisation
The globalisation of blue jeans can be attributed to various factors. Firstly, advancements in transportation and logistics made it possible for jeans to be manufactured in one part of the world and distributed to consumers worldwide. Today, major denim brands have production facilities in multiple countries, allowing them to take advantage of cost efficiencies and meet the global demand for jeans.
Secondly, globalisation facilitated the dissemination of fashion trends and popular culture. Through media channels such as television, movies, and the internet, the popularity of blue jeans spread to different countries and cultures. This broadened consumer base further fueled the global demand for jeans.
Moreover, trade liberalisation and free trade agreements have played a crucial role in the globalisation of blue jeans. These agreements have reduced trade barriers, enabled cross-border investments, and facilitated the sourcing of raw materials and production processes from different countries. As a result, jeans can be manufactured using denim sourced from one country, zippers from another, and buttons from yet another, all due to global supply chains.
The cultural impact of blue jeans is another manifestation of globalisation. As people from different parts of the world adopt jeans as a part of their everyday attire, they blend their cultural influences with this global fashion symbol. This fusion has given rise to diverse styles, such as skinny jeans, bootcut jeans, and boyfriend jeans, catering to the different tastes and preferences of consumers worldwide.
In conclusion, the history of blue jeans exemplifies how globalisation has shaped this everyday product. Its evolution from work pants to a globally recognized fashion staple is a testament to the interconnectedness and interdependence of economies, cultures, and societies. Advancements in transportation, communication, and trade have fueled the global production and distribution of jeans, while the dissemination of fashion trends and popular culture has amplified their popularity worldwide. Blue jeans serve as a tangible example of how globalisation has influenced our daily lives and transformed the fashion industry.
To effectively analyze how globalisation has shaped the history of a product or object encountered in our everyday lives, it is essential to gain a comprehensive understanding of globalisation as a historical force. Globalisation represents the interconnectedness and interdependence of people, nations, and cultures through the exchange of goods, ideas, and information on a global scale. It has been a long-standing process that originated centuries ago but gained significant momentum in the 20th century with advancements in technology and transportation. Globalisation has had a profound impact on various sectors such as fashion, food, technology, and culture, which will be explored in this essay.
Of the numerous products we encounter every day, one product that exemplifies the influence of globalisation is denim jeans. Denim jeans are an iconic fashion item, widely worn across different cultures and countries. Understanding the product's history is crucial in establishing the connection between jeans and globalisation.
The history of denim jeans can be traced back to the late 19th century when they were first created as durable workwear for miners, lumberjacks, and cowboys in the American West. However, it was not until the mid-20th century that jeans became a global phenomenon, mainly through the efforts of American companies like Levi Strauss & Co. The expansion of denim jeans as a global product can be attributed to several key factors.
Firstly, advancements in technology and transportation played a significant role in the globalisation of denim jeans. The invention of the sewing machine and the development of mass production techniques allowed for the efficient and cost-effective manufacturing of jeans on a larger scale. This enabled American companies to export jeans worldwide, meeting the rising demand for this versatile garment.
Secondly, the influence of American popular culture, particularly through movies and music, further propelled the globalisation of jeans. Hollywood movies, such as "Rebel Without a Cause" and "The Wild One," showcased denim jeans as a symbol of rebellion and youthful coolness, attracting international audiences and sparking a desire for this fashion item.
Additionally, the expansion of the global economy and the emergence of multinational corporations facilitated the spread of jeans to different parts of the world. As overseas markets opened up, American companies established production facilities in countries with lower labor costs, such as Mexico, China, and Bangladesh. This outsourcing strategy allowed for the mass production of jeans at more affordable prices, making them accessible to consumers worldwide.
Furthermore, the rise of fashion conglomerates and the increasing influence of global brands played a crucial role in popularising jeans on a global scale. Companies like Levi Strauss & Co., Wrangler, and Gap Inc. invested in marketing and advertising campaigns that effectively positioned jeans as a staple of casual wear. These global brands established their presence in major cities around the world, setting up stores and creating a demand for denim jeans irrespective of cultural boundaries.
The globalisation of jeans has also had a significant impact on cultural expression and identity. As denim jeans transcended geographical and cultural boundaries, they became a symbol of casual and westernized fashion. In many countries, jeans came to represent modernity, urbanization, and youth culture, leading to their assimilation into local fashion trends. Moreover, the adoption and adaptation of jeans in different cultural contexts reflect the dynamic nature of globalisation, with various styles and designs emerging to cater to diverse tastes and preferences.
In conclusion, the history of denim jeans exemplifies how globalisation has shaped the evolution and widespread use of a product encountered in our everyday lives. The advancements in technology, transportation, and the influence of American popular culture have contributed to the global popularity of jeans. The expansion of the global economy and the emergence of multinational corporations have facilitated the mass production and distribution of jeans, making them accessible to consumers worldwide. Additionally, the globalisation of jeans has influenced cultural expression and identity, contributing to their integration into diverse fashion trends. Overall, denim jeans serve as a testament to the profound impact of globalisation on various aspects of our daily lives.