History of silk and in part replaced natural silk. Following the crisis in Europe, the modernization of sericulture in Japan made it the world's foremost silk producer. By the early 20th century, rapidly industrializing Japan was producing as much as 60 percent of the world's raw silk, most exports shipping through the port of Yokohama. Italy managed to rebound from the crisis, but France was unable. Urbanization in Europe saw many French and Italian agricultural workers leave silk growing for more lucrative factory work. Raw silk was imported from Japan to fill the void. Asian countries, formerly exporters of raw materials (cocoons and
S-Cup Europe 2008 S-Cup Europe 2008 S-Cup Europe 2008 was a martial arts event co promoted by Shoot Boxing Europe and East Side Promotions. It was a preliminary qualifying tournament for the Shoot Boxing World Tournament 2008, involving ten fighters (two being reservists) with all bouts fought under Shoot Boxing rules (70 kg/154 lbs). All the tournament fighters were invitees selected on the basis of their achievements in kickboxing, Muay Thai and Savate (more information on the fighters is provided by the bulleted list below). As well as tournament matches there were also a number of opening fights and super fights (including a