1859day.year
Petroleum is discovered in Titusville, Pennsylvania, leading to the world's first commercially successful oil well.
In 1859, Edwin Drake drilled the first commercially successful oil well in Titusville, Pennsylvania, launching the modern petroleum industry.
On August 27, 1859, Edwin Drake struck oil at a depth of 69 feet near Titusville.
The discovery demonstrated the viability of drilling for petroleum and sparked an oil rush.
Within months, refineries and pipelines emerged to process and transport crude oil.
The new industry fueled the growth of kerosene lighting and later, gasoline for vehicles.
By the 1860s, Pennsylvania produced most of the world’s oil, transforming global energy markets.
Drake’s well laid the groundwork for the rise of major oil corporations and modern energy consumption.
1859
Petroleum
Titusville, Pennsylvania
oil well