Choose one product or object that you encounter in your everyday life and discuss how its history has

Question

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.

Answer 1

One product that I encounter in my everyday life which has been shaped by globalization is coffee. Coffee is a widely consumed beverage that has a long history influenced by global interactions.

The history of coffee dates back to ancient times, with its origins traced to Ethiopia in East Africa. It was then introduced to the Arab world and gained popularity in the Islamic culture during the 15th century. Coffeehouses became centers of social and intellectual activity, spreading from Mecca to Cairo, and eventually reaching cities like Constantinople (Istanbul) and Venice.

The globalization of coffee began during the colonial era when European powers established coffee plantations in their colonies. This led to the mass production and exportation of coffee, primarily from countries such as Brazil, Colombia, and Vietnam. The demand for coffee increased with the rise of consumer culture and the expansion of international trade networks.

Globalization has greatly influenced the production, distribution, and consumption of coffee. It has created a network of interconnectedness between coffee-growing regions and coffee-drinking countries. Technological advancements in transportation and communication have facilitated the global trade of coffee, allowing it to reach consumers worldwide.

Globalization has also led to the diversification of coffee products. Different regions have developed their own unique coffee varieties, flavors, and brewing methods, leading to the emergence of specialty coffee. This has created a global market for coffee enthusiasts, with coffee shops and cafes popping up in various countries and introducing consumers to different coffee cultures.

Moreover, the globalization of coffee has had significant economic and social impacts on coffee-producing countries. It has played a crucial role in the development of their economies, providing employment opportunities and generating revenue through exportation. However, globalization has also raised concerns about fair trade and the exploitation of coffee farmers, as large corporations dominate the industry and dictate prices.

In conclusion, coffee is a product that has been shaped by globalization. Its history has been influenced by the interactions between different cultures and the expansion of global trade networks. The global spread of coffee has transformed it into a popular beverage consumed worldwide, while also raising questions about fair trade and the impact on coffee-producing communities.