Modern history is steeped in oil. Oil is a fuel as well as a raw material for such products as plastics or detergents. Oil is the driving force behind major technological, economic and social developments, even revolutions and wars. The 20th century has lightly been called the century of oil. For most of the last century and until the present day, Royal Dutch Shell has been one of the largest oil companies in the world. From its creating in 1907 the company played a key role in the global oil industry.
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Understanding oil is essential for understanding modern history. The 20th century has rightly been called the century of oil, and the beginning of the 21st century suggests that this strategic commodity still gains in importance. From its creation in 1907 Royal Dutch Shell has played a key role in the global oil industry. For most of the 20th century Royal Dutch Shell was either the largest or, after Standard Oil/Exxon, the second largest oil company.
01. From Challenger to Joint Industry Leader
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In 1907 the Royal Dutch Company for the Exploitation of Oilwells in the Dutch East Indies and the "Shell" Transport & Trading Company merged their respective enterprises. By combining their forces they evolved into a worldwide enterprise within ten years and quickly became industry leaders.
02. Powering the Hydrocarbon Revolution
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It was a period in which Shell recovered very rapidly from the losses of the war and emerged as the second largest oil company in the world, despite many new challengers and competitors. Shell was one of the forces behind the hydrocarbon revolution. With the growth of the number of cars, trains, and planes the demand for transport fuels was enormous. Shell made the strategic decision to develop a petrochemical business and became a significant chemicals company. Chemicals became the second core business of the Group.
03. Keeping Competitive in Turbulent Oil Markets
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This was a period in which Shell had to keep competitive in turbulent oil markets. The demand for gas increased, making gas Shell's second most important product. At the same time the Group remained a strong oil company and a major player in petrochemicals.