This unit is an extensive examination of the growth and development of the oil and gas industry. It begins with an historical account of the first production of oil in the USA and the oil rushes that followed and then describes the rise of the major American oil companies. It discusses the development of the industry outside the USA, leading to oil and gas as a global industry and the rise of multinational oil companies. The role of the global struggle for oil in the wars of the twentieth century is documented, as well as the formation and history of OPEC, and the historical development of petroleum engineering and technology. <br/><br/>The economic impact and operation of the oil and gas... -- Course Website