Sneakers, a popular type of footwear worn by people all around the world today, have a rich history that has been shaped by globalization. Globalization, as a historical force, refers to the interconnectedness and integration of economies, societies, and cultures across borders. It has influenced numerous aspects of our daily lives, including the fashion industry and the production and consumption of sneakers. This essay will explore the history of sneakers and discuss how globalization has played a key role in shaping this iconic footwear.
The invention of sneakers can be traced back to the early 19th century when rubber soles were first introduced. However, it was not until the mid-20th century that sneakers gained significant popularity. Prior to this, sneakers were primarily used for specific activities such as sports and outdoor adventures. The rise of globalization in the late 20th century revolutionized the sneaker industry by transforming it into a global phenomenon.
One key aspect of globalization that has shaped the history of sneakers is the internationalization of manufacturing processes. Sneaker production has been globalized, with different components of the shoes made in various countries and then assembled in yet another location. This process began in the 1970s when major sneaker companies started outsourcing production to countries with lower labor costs, such as China and Vietnam. This shift allowed for mass production at a lower cost, resulting in affordable sneakers for consumers worldwide.
Globalization has also influenced the design and style of sneakers. As sneakers became more popular globally, companies started incorporating elements from different cultures into their designs. For example, Nike's collaboration with Japanese fashion designer Junya Watanabe in 2005 led to the creation of a collection that fused traditional Japanese craftsmanship with modern sneaker technology. This cross-cultural exchange not only influenced the design of sneakers but also facilitated cultural appreciation and understanding across borders.
Furthermore, globalization has played a significant role in the marketing and advertising of sneakers. Sneaker companies have embraced global marketing strategies to target customers from various regions. Through the use of social media platforms and celebrity endorsements, sneaker companies have been able to reach a wider audience, transcending national boundaries. This global marketing approach has created a sense of shared identity among sneaker enthusiasts worldwide, fostering a global sneaker culture.
The impacts of globalization on the sneaker industry have not been limited to production and consumption. It has also influenced labor practices and working conditions in manufacturing countries. With the outsourcing of production, some sneakers are now produced in sweatshops where workers are often exploited and subjected to poor working conditions. Globalization has allowed sneaker companies to take advantage of lax labor laws and low wages in certain countries, leading to ethical concerns regarding human rights violations in the production process.
In conclusion, sneakers have a fascinating history that has been shaped by globalization. The internationalization of manufacturing processes, the incorporation of different cultural elements in sneaker designs, global marketing strategies, and the ethical concerns surrounding labor practices are all ways in which globalization has influenced the sneaker industry. As a result, sneakers have become a global fashion trend, transcending borders and cultural barriers. It is essential to recognize both the positive and negative impacts of globalization on the sneaker industry, as it continues to evolve in response to changing global dynamics.
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Write an essay of 600 words about sneakers and discuss how its history has
been shaped by globalisation . Reference your work using footnote referencing style
To help you answer this question, follow these steps.
1) Understand Globalisation as a historical force.
2) Explore the history of your chosen product.
3) Connect your chosen product to your historical understanding of globalisation.
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