Introduction
Many people keep saying that the modern world is globalized, but it is necessary to explain what this statement means. Globalization is the process of international economic, political, cultural, and religious integration and unification. In other words, it implies the absence of strict borders among nations across the globe, which means that many countries have shared values. This process is not a homogenous phenomenon, and the given article will comment on the second wave of globalization and demonstrate that western dominance and technological development have played a leading role in it.
Main body
To begin with, one should comment on the three waves of globalization. The first wave covers a 50-year period before World War I. The invention of steam and internal combustion engines contributed to the fact that people obtained an opportunity to travel longer distances within shorter periods of time. That is why the United States witnessed many migrants, while Great Britain and France, leading powers of that time, promoted international trade. The second wave lasted for 25 years after the end of World War II. That period was characterized by the economic and military dominance of the United States. The transportation industry faced a significant improvement since jet planes were created. The third wave started in the late 1980s, and it is closely associated with the Internet. The European Union, the United States, and China are leading powers.
Now, it is reasonable to comment on the second wave. World War II became an unprecedented disaster for the whole world, but the US managed to have a narrow escape. Since its territory suffered less significantly compared to Europe, the United States managed to benefit from its fact. The dollar became an international currency, which contributed to the country’s economic development. The World Bank and the International Monetary Fund appeared during this period, and they also promoted the spread of the dollar internationally. Furthermore, the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) was established, and the US occupied a leading role there.
Simultaneously, it is reasonable to focus on the role that technology played during the second wave. Jet planes increased the speed with which people could overcome long distances, and it opened the world for individuals. Communication satellites made it easier for people to be in touch with one another irrespective of distance. These and other technological advancements resulted in the fact that welfare spread across the globe. This process became even more favorable for the world because the period of devastation during World War II preceded it.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the paper has demonstrated that globalization is a positive process that consists of three waves. The second wave occurred during the post-World War II period and included a few characteristic features. They are the intensified economic and military dominance of the United States and improved welfare because of technological advancements in the spheres of communications and transport. The importance of the second wave is in the fact that it formed the foundation of the modern development of science and technology. Furthermore, the paper helps understand how and why the United States has become the leading power in the world.