HISTORY

     There is reason to believe that the first use of cotton can be dated far back into the earliest human records. In fact – according to the earliest records of both Asian and Egyptian civilizations, these people have been cultivating and using cotton as early as 1000 B.C, perhaps even before 1000 B.C.! During these times, Egyptians wore cotton continuously; even Egyptian priests wore robes made with cotton sleeve. However – there are beliefs that the first use of cotton started well before 1000 B.C! About 3000 B.C. or so, cotton was being used grown, spun and woven in Pakistan. This cotton was then used to make cultural clothing and cozy blankets for their people. Around 450 B.C. or so, Herodotus – a Greek historian and geographer – made a written statement regarding a cotton plant growing in India. In this statement, he described this cotton plant just the way we would see it now - a plant almost similar to delicate sheep wool – and he was almost certain the Indians made use of it for clothing. On the other hand, there was no proof behind this discovery to justify the findings of this curious individual in that particular country. In 800 A.D., Arab merchants introduced cotton clothing to Europe. From then on, cotton became popular in those European countries and by 1500, cotton was known all around the world. Overall, humans have been known to use cotton ever since 3000 A.D! It is currently being used in almost every nation but more so in developed countries. It is important for the Canadian economy because the products being made with cotton are popular and constantly being purchased, therefore – a lot of money is being made and the Canadian economy is gradually growing through it all. Because cotton products are so successful, there are no negative impacts on individual nations. Cotton is important for individuals because it is a part of our daily lives and we are continuously found using or wearing cotton products whether we know it or not. Society benefits from products made from this fiber because we use it on a regular basis. Clothing, for example, is one important need in out lives and cotton fibers are used to make the clothing that provide us with warmth and comfort.