The process of globalization has brought about countless changes in societies, communities, regions and economies across the globe. In going back to the real origins of the global economy, this unique book demonstrates that the process of globalization was accompanied by the mastering of ‘social time’, thereby producing a progressive increase in the speed of business transactions, both in manufacturing and in services. It will be valuable reading for students and academics involved in the disciplines of international business, economic history, business history and politics.