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.
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.
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