Unit 9: Globalization

Introduction to Globalization

• Globalization is the interconnectedness of the world through trade and technology.
• Accelerated by technology in the 20th and 21st centuries.
• Impacts political, economic, and social spheres.
• Not evenly distributed; wealthy nations adopted first.

Communication Technologies

1. Radio

   • Early 20th century innovation.
   • Brought voices directly into homes.
   • Bypassed intermediaries like newspapers.
   • Used by leaders (e.g., FDR during the Great Depression and WWII).

2. Television

   • Dominant form by the 1960s.
   • Connected people to global events (e.g., Vietnam War, Cuban Missile Crisis).

3. Cellular Technology

   • Evolved from 1876's telephone to 1980s' cell phones.
   • Enabled global connectivity.

4. Internet

   • Developed in the 1960s; became widespread in the 1990s.
   • Revolutionized communication and commerce.

Transportation Technologies

1. Automobiles

   • Changed urban landscapes, created suburbs.

2. Air Travel

   • Became widespread in mid-20th century.
   • Shrunk geographical distances.

3. Shipping Containers

   • Standardized, easy transport of goods.
   • Facilitated globalization of manufacturing.

Energy Technologies

1. Petroleum

   • More efficient than coal.
   • Major source of global pollution.

2. Nuclear Power

   • Clean alternative to fossil fuels.
   • Public concern over safety due to accidents.

Medical Technologies

1. Antibiotics

   • Penicillin developed in 1928.
   • Revolutionized treatment of bacterial infections.

2. Vaccines

   • Broadened in the 20th century.
   • Combated diseases like measles, polio.

3. Birth Control

   • 1950s development.
   • Led to declines in fertility rates in developed countries.

Agricultural Technologies

1. Commercial Farming

   • Shift from subsistence to profit-oriented.
   • Requires advanced machinery.

2. Green Revolution

   • 1950s/60s genetic modification of crops.
   • Increased yields in developing countries.
   • Environmental concerns from intensive practices.

Conclusion

• Globalization has reshaped the world in economic, social, and political dimensions.
• Technologies play a critical role in connecting the world but also introduce challenges.

• Additional resources: AP World Heimler Review Guide for further exam preparation.