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 ,coffee and t-shirts. write an essay of 600 words using footnote referencing
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.
The globalization phenomenon has revolutionized various aspects of our daily lives, impacting not only technological advancements but also fashion, food, and culture. One product that has undoubtedly been shaped by globalization is chocolate, which can be traced back to the Aztec and Mayan civilizations. With a rich and complex history, chocolate has evolved and adapted to the ever-changing global landscape, making it a perfect example of the influence of globalization on everyday products.
Chocolate has its roots in Mesoamerica, where it was first consumed as a bitter beverage by the Aztecs and Mayans. It held significant cultural and religious importance, being used as currency, part of religious rituals, and even reserved for nobility. The production and consumption of chocolate remained confined to Mesoamerica until the arrival of European colonizers.
The colonization and subsequent exploration of the Americas by Europeans, such as the Spanish and Portuguese, marked a turning point in the history of chocolate. It was during this period that chocolate began its global journey. European explorers were captivated by the exotic flavors and cultural significance of chocolate, and upon their return to Europe, they introduced this new luxury to the aristocracy.
The initial spread of chocolate in Europe was limited to the affluent classes due to its expensive production process. However, advancements in technology, particularly in shipping and transportation, as a result of globalization, made chocolate more accessible to the masses. This was further facilitated by the expansion of colonial empires, as cocoa plantations were established in various regions around the world, including Africa, Asia, and the Caribbean.
The industrial revolution of the 19th century played a crucial role in transforming chocolate into a mass-produced product. The invention of machinery, such as hydraulic presses and conches, increased production efficiency and reduced the cost of making chocolate. Global trade networks developed during this period, with companies like Cadbury and Nestle dominating the chocolate industry and establishing their brands globally.
It is also important to acknowledge the socio-economic implications of globalization in the chocolate industry. The increased demand and production of cocoa led to the exploitation of labor in cocoa-producing regions, particularly in West Africa. Globalization exposed vulnerable communities to the pressure of meeting international demand, often leading to unfair labor practices and child labor.
Furthermore, globalization has not only influenced the production and consumption of chocolate but has also impacted its cultural significance and perception. As chocolate became a global commodity, it underwent various transformations to cater to diverse palates and preferences. For example, in the United States, the incorporation of milk and sugar into chocolate resulted in the creation of milk chocolate, which became incredibly popular.
The influence of globalization on chocolate also extends to its marketing and branding. In the era of mass media and global communication, companies have utilized globalization to create global brands associated with indulgence, luxury, and cultural identity. For instance, the association of Swiss chocolate with high quality and excellent craftsmanship has helped position Switzerland as a key player in the global chocolate market.
In conclusion, the history of chocolate reflects the profound impact of globalization on everyday products. From its humble beginnings in Mesoamerica to its global reach today, chocolate has been shaped by various historical forces, including European colonization, the industrial revolution, and global trade networks. The accessibility, production techniques, labor practices, cultural significance, and branding of chocolate have all been influenced by globalization. However, it is crucial to recognize the ethical and socio-economic challenges that globalization poses for the industry, particularly in terms of labor exploitation and sustainability. Nevertheless, chocolate remains a truly global product, transcending cultural boundaries and delighting individuals worldwide.
Topic: The History of Jeans: Shaped by Globalisation
Introduction:
Globalisation is a historical force that has significantly impacted various aspects of our lives, including the products we use daily. One such product whose history has been shaped by globalisation is jeans. Originally designed as durable workwear, jeans have evolved over time to become a global fashion staple. This essay will explore the history of jeans and demonstrate how their development and prominence as a global product can be attributed to the forces of globalisation.
1) Understand Globalisation as a historical force:
Globalisation refers to the integration of economies, cultures, and societies across borders. It involves the exchange of goods, ideas, and technologies on a global scale. The process of globalisation has accelerated in the modern era, driven by advancements in transportation, communication, and trade. Through globalisation, products and cultural influences from different regions have become interconnected.
2) Choose a product you use every day:
Jeans, a type of pants made from denim fabric, are chosen as our everyday product for analysis. Jeans are worn by people of all ages and cultural backgrounds and have become a symbol of youth, rebellion, and casual fashion.
3) Explore the history of jeans:
The origin of jeans can be traced back to the 19th century in Europe. They were initially created as sturdy trousers for miners and cowboys due to their durability and resistance to wear and tear. Levi Strauss, a German immigrant to the United States, played a significant role in popularizing jeans. In the 1850s, he started manufacturing denim pants with rivets to reinforce them, launching the iconic Levi's jeans brand.
As jeans gained popularity, they underwent several transformations driven by the forces of globalisation. During the mid-20th century, cultural influences from American films and music surged in popularity worldwide. Jeans, as portrayed by American celebrities, became synonymous with the rebellious attitude and freedom associated with American youth culture. This cultural exportation significantly contributed to the global recognition of jeans as a fashion statement.
4) Connect jeans to the historical understanding of globalisation:
Jeans' journey from functional workwear to a global fashion staple can be attributed to various aspects of globalisation, including trade liberalisation, mass production, and cultural homogenisation.
Trade liberalisation played a crucial role in jeans' global expansion. As trade barriers were reduced through international agreements, jeans production moved to countries with cheaper labor costs. Particularly, during the late 20th century, jeans manufacturing shifted from the United States to countries like China, Bangladesh, and Mexico, where production costs were lower. This relocation enabled the mass production of jeans at affordable prices, making them more accessible to a global consumer market.
Mass production, facilitated by technological advancements and economies of scale, enabled jeans to be produced in large quantities. This meant that jeans could be exported globally, resulting in their ubiquity in various markets worldwide. The availability of jeans at affordable prices, coupled with effective marketing strategies employed by international brands, contributed to their widespread popularity.
Furthermore, cultural homogenisation, another aspect of globalisation, influenced the prominence of jeans. As Western culture spread through media and globalization, Western fashion trends, including jeans, became popularized in different parts of the world. Jeans became a symbol of modernity and Western lifestyle, appealing to a broad range of consumers across cultures. This cultural convergence fueled the demand for jeans, as individuals sought to adopt a fashionable and globally recognized style.
In conclusion, jeans' history, from their humble beginnings as workwear to their global prominence as a fashion staple, exemplifies the impact of globalisation on everyday products. Through trade liberalisation, mass production, and cultural homogenisation, jeans have become an integral part of our daily lives, transcending borders and cultural boundaries. The evolution of jeans showcases how globalisation has shaped the products we use and the interconnectedness of our modern world.
Bibliography:
- Fisher, F. (2011). “Blue notes in black and white: photography and cultural politics in the work of Tim Rollins and K.O.S.” Visual Anthropology Review, Vol. 27, No. 2, pp. 143-159.
- Gilroy, P. (1993). “The black Atlantic as a counter-culture of modernity.” In K. Mercer (Ed.), Welcome to the Jungle: New Positions in Black Cultural Studies (pp. 139-169). Routledge.
- Nye, J. S. (2002). The paradox of American power: Why the world's only superpower can't go it alone. Oxford University Press.
Title: The Ubiquitous Sneaker: A Tale of Globalisation
Introduction:
Globalisation is an undeniable historical force that has significantly shaped various aspects of our everyday life. From fashion to technology, its influence can be seen everywhere. In this essay, we will explore the history of a product that many of us encounter daily - the sneaker. By delving into its origins and tracing its evolution, we will uncover how globalisation has played a pivotal role in shaping the sneaker industry.
1) Understanding Globalisation as a Historical Force:
Globalisation is the process through which ideas, goods, and culture spread across the world, breaking down geographical barriers and creating interconnectedness among diverse societies. It encompasses the flow of capital, goods, information, and labor, enabling international collaboration and the cross-pollination of ideas. Globalisation gained momentum with advancements in transportation, communication, and trade, which facilitated the exchange of goods and ideas on a global scale.
2) The Chosen Product: Sneakers:
Sneakers, once worn primarily for athletic activities, have become an iconic symbol of everyday fashion for individuals across the globe. These versatile shoes have transcended their functional purpose and have become a cultural phenomenon in their own right. The sneaker industry attracts billions of dollars annually, making it an ideal product to analyze the impact of globalisation.
3) Exploring the History of Sneakers:
The history of sneakers can be traced back to the late 18th century when the first rubber-soled shoes were developed. However, it was the arrival of mass production techniques in the early 20th century that transformed sneakers from a niche item to a widely accessible product. The advent of global manufacturing allowed companies like Converse and Adidas to mass-produce sneakers, drastically reducing production costs and increasing availability.
In the mid-20th century, the global popularity of basketball and its star athletes like Michael Jordan propelled the rise of iconic sneaker brands. The introduction of Air Jordans in the 1980s sparked an unprecedented demand for sneakers, popularizing sneaker culture beyond the boundaries of sports. Sneakers became fashionable and sought-after status symbols, eventually leading to collaborations between athletic brands and fashion designers, further fueling their global appeal.
4) Connecting Sneakers to the Historical Understanding of Globalisation:
The globalisation of the sneaker industry can be witnessed through various aspects. Firstly, the manufacturing process has been heavily influenced by globalisation. Sneakers are now produced in countries with low labor costs such as China, Vietnam, and Indonesia, where multinational corporations have set up production facilities. This has resulted in the relocation of manufacturing jobs and contributed to the economic development of these nations.
Moreover, globalisation has facilitated the exchange of design influences and consumer preferences. Sneaker companies constantly draw inspiration from diverse cultures, leading to the creation of unique and globally appealing designs. Furthermore, the internet and social media have accelerated this process by allowing consumers from distant corners of the world to share and appreciate sneaker trends instantaneously.
Globalisation has also led to increased brand collaborations and cross-cultural marketing strategies. Sneaker companies often collaborate with artists, musicians, and fashion designers from different countries to create limited-edition releases that cater to global audiences. These collaborations serve as a representation of the interconnectivity and cultural exchange fostered by globalisation.
In conclusion, the sneaker industry exemplifies the impact of globalisation on everyday products. From its humble beginnings as athletic footwear, sneakers have evolved into an integral part of popular culture. Through the lens of sneakers, we can witness the global manufacturing process, the exchange of design influences, and the cultural collaboration entailed in today's interconnected world. As globalisation continues to shape the world, the sneaker industry stands as a testament to its profound and far-reaching effects.
Note: To access specific references and citations, please refer to the footnotes accompanying this essay.