The Fabric of Civilization: How Textiles Made the World

Textiles have played a significant role in human history, influencing technology, business, politics, and culture. From the origins of chemistry to the birth of agriculture, the textile industry has had a profound impact on society. Virginia Postrel's book "The Fabric of Civilization" explores the hidden ways textiles have shaped our world, highlighting their economic and cultural significance.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 320 pages
Publication date: 09 December 2021
Publisher: Basic Books

The story of humanity is intricately woven with the threads of textiles, a tradition that dates back to the dawn of civilization itself. Textiles have played a pivotal role in shaping empires, driving innovation, establishing trade routes, and defining the boundaries of nations. From the very first spun thread, fabrics have been the catalyst for technological advancements, economic growth, political influence, and cultural transformations.

In her book, "The Fabric of Civilization," Virginia Postrel delves into the remarkable history of textiles, unveiling the hidden ways in which they have shaped our world. The origins of chemistry can be traced back to the coloring and finishing of cloth, where the manipulation of colors and textures led to the development of new substances and processes. Weaving, in particular, holds a key to the origins of mathematics and binary code. The intricate patterns and structures created in weaving laid the foundation for mathematical theories and computer algorithms.

Furthermore, textiles played a crucial role in the birth of agriculture. Selective breeding of plants to produce fibers enabled the cultivation of crops and the establishment of settled communities. The production of silk, in particular, led to the development of the belt drive, a crucial innovation that revolutionized transportation. Silk production also gave rise to microbiology, as scientists studied the bacteria and fungi that thrive in silkworm habitats.

The textile industry not only had a profound impact on economic and cultural development but also played a significant role in funding the Italian Renaissance and the Mughal Empire. It introduced concepts such as double-entry bookkeeping and letters of credit, which transformed the way businesses were conducted. The trade and production of textiles also led to the construction of iconic landmarks such as the David and the Taj Mahal, showcasing the exquisite craftsmanship and artistic achievements of different civilizations.

From the Minoans who exported woolen cloth colored with precious purple dye to Egypt, to the Romans who wore wildly expensive Chinese silk, the trade and production of textiles paved the economic and cultural crossroads of the ancient world. The quest for fabrics and dyes drew sailors across strange seas, creating an ever-more connected global economy. Textiles became a symbol of wealth, power, and cultural exchange, connecting people from different regions and fostering a sense of unity and cooperation.

In conclusion, the story of humanity is deeply intertwined with the story of textiles. From the earliest civilizations to the modern world, fabrics have been the driving force behind technological advancements, economic growth, political influence, and cultural transformations. Through the ages, textiles have played a vital role in shaping the course of human history, and their impact continues to be felt today.

Weight: 322g
Dimension: 139 x 209 x 27 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781541617629