Globalisation is a historical force that has greatly shaped our modern world. It refers to the increasing interconnectedness and interdependence of countries through various economic, political, and cultural processes. One product that has been heavily influenced by globalisation is coffee.
Coffee has a long and complex history that spans several continents and centuries. It originated in Ethiopia and was first cultivated and consumed by the indigenous people of East Africa. From there, it spread to the Arabian Peninsula and gained popularity in the Islamic world. Coffeehouses emerged as important social and intellectual gathering places, fostering the exchange of ideas and knowledge.
During the colonial era, European powers established coffee plantations in their colonies, particularly in regions such as South America and the Caribbean. The demand for coffee grew exponentially, driven by the emergence of a global market and the increasing consumption of coffee in Europe and North America.
Globalisation played a significant role in the expansion of the coffee industry. Advances in transportation, such as the development of steamships and railways, facilitated the transportation of coffee beans from producer countries to consumer markets. Trade networks were established, connecting coffee-growing regions with major ports and trading hubs.
The global coffee trade was also influenced by economic and political factors. Colonial powers exerted control over coffee production in their colonies, exploiting labor and resources to meet the growing demand. This led to unequal power dynamics and economic disparities between coffee-producing nations and consumer nations.
Furthermore, globalisation led to the standardisation and commodification of coffee. Different varieties and flavors of coffee were blended together to create consistent and marketable products. This created a homogenization of taste preferences and contributed to the dominance of certain brands in the global coffee market.
In recent years, globalisation has also contributed to a growing awareness of the social and environmental impacts of coffee production. Fair trade certifications and sustainable farming practices have emerged as responses to consumer demands for ethically sourced and environmentally friendly coffee.
Overall, the history of coffee exemplifies the complex and multifaceted nature of globalisation. It showcases how economic, political, and cultural processes intersect to shape the production, consumption, and trade of a globally popular product. Additionally, the history of coffee highlights the power dynamics and inequalities that can arise within the global economy, as well as the potential for positive change through ethical and sustainable practices.
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.
1 answer