About this season
The discovery of oil brought unprecedented economic growth to humanity. Initially, oil was available in large quantities and cheap – but in 1973, a consequential oil price crisis hit, and the sticky commodity became part of a geopolitical poker game. The struggle for global resources is more relevant than ever.
Episodes (2)
1. Rise and Fall
Aired 1 September 2021 • 53 min
It changed our way of life, our economy and the global order. How did we become addicted to oil? This is the fascinating history of how black gold became a vital source of energy and a maker of nations.
2. Greed and Corruption
Aired 8 September 2021 • 53 min
Part two of the story of how oil revolutionised our lives, the economy and international relations. The oil crisis of 1973 revealed just how dependant Europe and America were on the OPEC oil producing states, shifting the balance of power from the industrialised nations to developing countries.