Globalization refers to the increasing interconnectedness of economies and societies around the world through trade, communications, and cultural exchange. It has increased significantly due to factors like colonialism, improved transportation and communication technologies, the growth of multinational corporations, and trade agreements that reduce barriers. The effects of globalization include changing food supplies to be available worldwide year-round, outsourcing of manufacturing to lower costs countries, less job security in developed nations, and impacts on local cultures and environments from corporate expansion. While globalization allows goods and ideas to spread rapidly, it has also faced increasing protests over its negative impacts.