The passage indicates that globalization's acceleration in recent centuries is primarily due to:

While often perceived as a modern phenomenon, globalization has deep historical roots, extending back to ancient trade routes and empires that connected disparate regions. However, the speed and scale of globalization have dramatically accelerated in recent centuries, driven by advancements in transportation, communication, and international economic policies. This interconnectedness has both fostered unprecedented prosperity and raised concerns about cultural homogenization and economic inequality.