Globalization has often been understood as an impersonal and abstract phenomenon. Whether in everyday culture or matters of policy, this force has been experienced something at once general and monolithic. From Silk to Silicon is the first book to look at a history of globalization as told through the lens of ten extraordinary individuals. It tells who these men and women were, what they did, how they did it, and how their combined will and vision continue to shape our world today. Drawing together their various stories, Jeffrey E. Garten finds the common links between these figures. Placing the individual personality at the forefront of history, Garten explores some critical issues, including how much influence can any one person have in transforming our world. He argues that, in our increasingly globalized world, our progress and growth will come to be guided by many more such leaders and innovators. From Silk to Silicon presents a future full of human possibility.