Shares the story of world trade from 1498, when Vasco da Gama rounded Africa's southern tip, to current times in which nations collaborate in the World Trade Organization and other trade associations. This book provides information about the nations, people, and events that changed the world market; the philosophies behind trade policies; the state of the global market today; and the benefits and costs of world trade.

The global marketplace -- The first age of globalization -- Destruction and depression -- A new age of globalization -- Trade in the new millennium.