World’s Fairs, originating 174 years ago, focus on technology, ideas, and unity, with Osaka Expo set to attract 28 million visitors. The emphasis on adaptability, sustainability, and cultural exchange solidifies their relevance, maintaining a legacy that encourages dialogue and international cooperation.
World’s Fairs, which began 174 years ago, were initially established to showcase advancements in technology. They have since evolved into events that highlight ideas and experiences, with the upcoming Osaka Expo expecting 28 million visitors from April 13 to October 13. The fairs maintain their appeal by continuously adapting to current social needs, from technology to sustainability.
The first World’s Fair in London in 1851 showcased technological advances, including the early “picture telegraph,” a precursor to the fax machine. It attracted over six million visitors, showcasing innovation as well as elaborate architectural design, like the iconic Crystal Palace.
The Osaka Expo will feature an impressive 2,214-foot diameter circular observatory, designed to foster unity among 165 participating countries. The event intends to not just display technology but also address contemporary issues. The architect, Sou Fujimoto, emphasised the importance of gathering diverse nations to foster unity.
Colossal displays, like the Gundam robot at the Osaka Expo, have become hallmark features of these events. While many structures are temporary, some, like the Eiffel Tower, have become enduring symbols of their host cities, demonstrating the lasting legacy of World Expos.
Historian Charles Pappas pointed out that nothing can replace live experiences, and past expos demonstrated how impactful such in-person interactions can be. The Dubai Expo in 2020 saw 24 million attendees, reinforcing the necessity of physical gatherings for exchanging ideas and experiences.
Countries consider the legacy of hosting these expos seriously, with Lisbon’s 1998 Expo revitalising its waterfront. Inviting nations to present their cultural and technological advancements promotes goodwill and soft power on a global stage.
Historically, these fairs also reflected cultural superiority through ethnographic displays. However, they have also nurtured artistic movements, showing the powerful influence on artists like Picasso and Dalí, who leveraged these platforms for exposure.
In the wake of contemporary challenges like climate change, today’s expos emphasise eco-responsibility. The upcoming Osaka Expo will focus on sustainability, showcasing pavilions built from recyclable materials. The Spanish pavilion will spotlight crucial historical trade routes and current ecological themes.
While World’s Fairs provide platforms for dialogue and soft power, they can sometimes become arenas for territorial disputes. Nevertheless, they have evolved into spaces for cooperation and understanding. Notable absences at upcoming events include Mexico and Argentina due to various issues with participation.
World’s Fairs have transformed significantly since their inception, evolving from technological showcases to global platforms for ideas and pressing social issues. Key themes of sustainability, unity, and innovation continue to attract millions, as demonstrated by the anticipated turnout at the Osaka Expo. Yet, while they highlight cooperation, they also reflect historical tensions, showcasing the complex interplay between cultural diplomacy and territorial disputes.
Original Source: english.elpais.com