What is globalization? It can be simply defined as world integration and development, but if the citizens of the world define it, it is simply called conflict. As you read on, you'll see how globalization and the global North-South divide play a key role in our nation's economy. From wars on European soil to growing poverty in Africa to the boom in technological prowess in Japan, this one word will be a euphemism for everything to come. I will explain how the global divide began and how globalization plays a key role in the destructive nature of the world. As the gap between the two divisions grows ever further apart, one question still remains; Will it ever be possible to bridge this gap? On January 20, 1949, President Harry Truman's inaugural address brought the topic of "underdeveloped countries" to the attention of the United States Congress. The GNP (gross national product) of the United States has been used up exponentially by its growing industries compared to poorer countries in South America such as Brazil, Argentina and Mexico. During the world wars, economic instabilities were put to the test, but being considered a power, the United States demonstrated stability and perseverance. Thus, later, it also brought alliances with the West during the Cold War (division between East and West). Despite the interruption of World War I, organized and sponsored research and development began in the early 20th century. The United States made accelerated progress in the following decades that saw the dawn of new concepts and discoveries in the physical and biological sciences. The power of science and technology during World War II was completely disrupted. Halfway through t...... half through document ......aper on civil society and social movementsPP CSSM 22 NGOs and social movements: a divide between North and South?Alejandro Bendaña, June 2006Printed in SwitzerlandGE.06 - 01542-June 2006-1,100UNRISD/PPCSSM22/06/1 North and South in the world political economyAuthors Rafael Reuveny, William R. ThompsonPublishers Rafael Reuveny, William R. ThompsonIllustrated editionPublisher John Wiley & Sons, 2008ISBN 1405162775, 9781405162777Long 397 pages Business Topics and Economy›International›EconomyBusiness and Economy / International / EconomyDeveloped CountriesDeveloped Countries - Economic PolicyDeveloping CountriesDeveloping Countries - Economic PolicyPolitical Science / Economic ConditionsPolitical Science / GeneralPolitical Science / International Relations / GeneralSocial Science / Developing Countries