History of BP
The BP story, from first oil to tomorrow’s energies
Our history is full of discoveries, starting in 1908 with oil found in a rugged part of Persia after a long and difficult search. Since then, discoveries large and small (and sometimes just in the nick of time) have fuelled our progress.In our story, you may make a few discoveries of your own. Winston Churchill gives a rousing speech. The Smurfs cause a traffic jam. Our employees help construct a giant spool, build the world’s largest deepwater pipeline and bring solar power to remote villages in the Philippines.
Where did they find the energy? Perhaps we should start at the beginning.
An uncertain beginning
A long search for oil in Persia nearly
ends in failure and lost fortunes.
ends in failure and lost fortunes.
From struggle to success
After delays and financial teetering,
a new customer sails forth.
a new customer sails forth.
Making progress amid turmoil
War necessitates some odd
inventions, while all British petrol
is 'Pool'.
inventions, while all British petrol
is 'Pool'.
Big changes and new prospects
As the door swings shut on Iranian
oil, new discoveries elsewhere.
oil, new discoveries elsewhere.
Finding a new momentum
Oil starts to flow on both sides of
the Atlantic; BP returns to its roots.
the Atlantic; BP returns to its roots.
Looking ahead to new energies
A dramatic change of identity
symbolizes energy in all its forms.
symbolizes energy in all its forms.
