Year 1000: When Explorers Connected the World - and Globalization Began

The year 1000 marked the beginning of globalization, which ushered in a new era of exploration and trade, leading to Europeans' dominance after Columbus reached America. This was facilitated by new trade routes linking the globe, as demonstrated by the Maya's trade with New Mexico and frozen textiles in Greenland. Hansen's revisionist argument challenges the conventional wisdom, revealing that globalization began earlier and that the first anti-globalization riots occurred in cities like Cairo, Constantinople, and Guangzhou.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 320 pages
Publication date: 04 February 2021
Publisher: Penguin Books Ltd

The Roots of Globalization: A Revisionist History

In his captivating book, "The Silk Roads: A New History of the World," Peter Frankopan delves into the intricate tapestry of globalization, offering a comprehensive and enlightening perspective. Typically spanning a wide range of topics, this book is a treasure trove of information that sheds light on the origins and evolution of our interconnected world.

According to most observers, globalization began in 1492, when Columbus discovered America. However, as renowned Yale professor Valerie Hansen reveals, the true catalyst for globalization was the year 1000. This pivotal year marked the emergence of new trade routes that interconnected the entire globe, enabling the potential for an object to circumnavigate the world. This monumental event marked the birth of globalization, ushering in a new era of exploration, trade, and dominance by Europeans.

Hansen employs a diverse array of fresh historical sources and cutting-edge archaeology to support her compelling argument. Through meticulous research, she demonstrates that the Maya, for instance, initiated trade with the native peoples of modern-day New Mexico by detecting traces of theobromine, a chemical signature associated with chocolate. Furthermore, frozen textiles discovered in Greenland contain hairs from animals that could only have originated from North America, further substantiating the early interconnectedness of the world.

Hansen challenges prevailing notions by revealing that globalization began much earlier than previously believed. She also unveils that the world witnessed its first anti-globalization riots in cities like Cairo, Constantinople, and Guangzhou. These riots, which occurred during the early stages of globalization, reflect the tensions and conflicts that arose as different regions and cultures came into contact for the first time.

"The Silk Roads" introduces a diverse cast of characters, hailing from Europe, the Islamic world, Asia, the Indian Ocean maritime world, the Pacific, and the Mayan world. These individuals played a pivotal role in connecting the major landmasses, laying the foundation for the globalization that would dominate the world for centuries to come. Through their interactions and exchanges, a rich tapestry of cultural, economic, and political influences was woven, shaping the world we know today.

In conclusion, "The Silk Roads: A New History of the World" by Peter Frankopan is a remarkable work that offers a fresh and revisionist perspective on the origins and evolution of globalization. Through meticulous research and compelling storytelling, Hansen sheds light on the intricate web of connections that have shaped our world, challenging our preconceived notions and illuminating the rich tapestry of our shared history. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the complex dynamics of our globalized world.

Weight: 250g
Dimension: 129 x 197 x 27 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780241351277