The World-Struggle for Oil

"The World-Struggle for Oil" by Pierre Paul Ernest L'Espagnol de la Tramerye is a historical exploration of oil's central role in global politics during the early 20th century. It looks at oil as more than just a resource; it's a key factor in shaping international relationships after World War I. The book shows how countries competed for control of oil, recognizing its importance for military strength and maintaining power. It starts by explaining how important oil became for governments and armies, with leaders in the US, Britain, and France pushing for strong oil policies to secure reserves around the world. The opening sections cover the background of oil discovery, growing demand, and the rivalry between big companies like Standard Oil and Royal Dutch Shell. This sets the stage for understanding how these companies influenced global politics, especially during wars and economic changes, portraying oil not just as economically important, but as a source of true political might.