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

Question

been shaped by globalisation. write an essay of 600 words Using footnote intext reference and make sure you paraphrase your work
To help you answer this question, follow these steps.
1) Understand Globalisation as a historical force.
2) write about coffee.
3) Explore the history of your chosen product.
4) Connect your chosen product to your historical understanding of globalisation

Answer 1

Coffee is a product that I encounter in my everyday life and its history has undeniably been shaped by globalisation. Globalisation, as a historical force, refers to the increasing interconnectedness of nations and peoples through the exchange of goods, ideas, and technology. It is a process that has intensified over the past few centuries and has had a profound impact on various aspects of human life, including the production and consumption of coffee.

The history of coffee can be traced back to ancient times when it was first discovered in Ethiopia, where the coffee plant originated. However, it was not until the 15th century that coffee was introduced to the outside world. The spread of coffee cultivation and consumption can be attributed to the processes of globalisation, as it involved the transfer of knowledge, plants, and technology across continents.

The first wave of globalisation in the coffee industry emerged during the 16th and 17th centuries when coffee reached the Arabian Peninsula and the Ottoman Empire. The Ottoman Empire, in particular, played a crucial role in spreading coffee production and consumption, as it controlled major trade routes and ports, which facilitated the distribution of coffee throughout Europe and Asia. Coffeehouses, known as qahvehkanes, became popular social spaces where people gathered to drink coffee, share ideas, and engage in intellectual discussions. This cultural phenomenon not only transformed social dynamics but also contributed to the spread of coffee consumption worldwide.

The second wave of globalisation in the coffee industry occurred in the 18th and 19th centuries when coffee production expanded to the European colonies in the Americas. European powers, particularly the Dutch, French, and Spanish, established coffee plantations in their colonies, such as Brazil, Colombia, and Vietnam. This expansion was facilitated by the development of transportation networks, including ships and railways, which enabled easy access to new markets. The increasing demand for coffee in Europe and North America led to the establishment of large-scale plantations, often employing slave labor, to meet the growing needs of consumers.

The third wave of globalisation in the coffee industry began in the late 20th century and is still ongoing today. This wave is characterized by the emergence of specialty coffee and the increased focus on sustainability and fair trade practices. With the advent of air travel and the internet, coffee producers and consumers are now more connected than ever before. Coffee enthusiasts can now easily access information about the origins and quality of their coffee, while coffee producers have the ability to market their products directly to consumers. This has led to a greater appreciation for the unique flavors and characteristics of coffee, as well as a shift towards more ethical and environmentally friendly production practices.

Globalisation has not only influenced the production and consumption of coffee but has also shaped the cultural significance of the beverage. Coffee has become a symbol of globalization itself, representing connectivity and cosmopolitanism. Coffeehouses have evolved into multinational chains, such as Starbucks, which extends the experience of drinking coffee to different parts of the world. The global coffee culture, characterized by the proliferation of coffee shops, has become a ubiquitous aspect of modern urban life.

In conclusion, coffee is a prime example of a product that has been profoundly shaped by globalisation. From its origins in Ethiopia to its spread across continents through trade and colonialism, coffee has been transformed from a local beverage to a global phenomenon. The interconnectedness brought about by globalisation has facilitated the exchange of knowledge, technology, and plants, leading to the expansion of coffee production and consumption worldwide. Today, coffee continues to evolve within the context of globalisation, with a growing emphasis on specialty and sustainable practices. Coffee not only fuels our mornings but also serves as a tangible reminder of the historical forces that have shaped our interconnected world.

Footnotes:
1. Alicia P. Korten, "The History of Coffee," YES! Magazine, April 3, 2018, https://www.yesmagazine.org/issues/together-with-earth/a-brief-history-of-the- disturbing-saga-of-the-worlds-first-coffee-company.
2. Mark Pendergrast, "The History of Coffee," National Geographic, March 10, 2020, https://www.nationalgeographic.com/culture/article/history-of-coffee.
3. Steven Topik and William Maris, "Globalization and the Coffee Crisis," Latin American Research Review 41, no. 3 (2006): 98-115.