Category — globalization

In the 17th Century, trade globalization was a way for powerful nations to spread their sphere of influence and explore other countries under the banner of “economics.” The Dutch East India Company was the first multi-national company to offer stocks in 1602, and was granted a 21-year monopoly to deal with trade between the Netherlands and Asia. The Netherlands held considerable water power back then, with massive fleets of ships. This setup ensured that the powerful European influences would be sailed around the world and financed by other European nations to obtain Japanese copper and Chinese spices and textiles. However, global issues arose as ships were attacked en route and the need to protect trade interests began to play a major part in the exportation of ideas and government leaders. The Dutch found themselves up against expanding British and French powers which sought to cut out the “middle man” and make their own international trade deals. In the end, the Dutch East India Company wound up in shambles due to corruption, but other European powers stepped in to take their place.

The last twenty years have shown a large increase in globalization trade, which was expedited by the decline of communism and closed door trade strategy. Countries like China and Russia have welcomed foreign developers in an effort to bolster and rebuild their nations. The Soviet Union was in a state of disrepair at one time and China was overwhelmed with poverty, but thanks to financial globalization, their countries are now valuable players in the world market.

[Read more →]

Global issues affect us on a daily basis even though we may not realize the issues have great importance. The dawning of civilization has brought humans into contact with each other. It is in our nature to interact. Sometimes these interactions were not peaceful or helpful. But regardless of the outcome of that interaction, globalization occurred each time.

The world community, as it has developed greater technology, has expanded its borders incredibly. Where once it may have taken years to conduct trade or foreign affairs, it can now be done almost instantly. The global issues and debates are many and in this article we will discuss some of the key components that make up globalization.

[Read more →]