rom ancient China to the empires of Andrew Mellon and John D. Rockefeller to the Gulf War, oil has played a major role in human history. Precious petroleum has affected nations' policies in ways subtle and obvious; it has created vast fortunes, and it has caused misery. Through interviews with historians and industry insiders, this History Channel documentary provides a defining look at the oil industry and black gold's history.

The most valuable substance on earth has brought riches to poor nations and nearly bankrupted wealthy ones. It has created cities overnight - sometimes destroying them just as quickly - and has caused rampant international warfare.

When a Canadian chemist found a way to turn petroleum into kerosene in the 1850s, the need for oil exploded. "Black gold" burns at the heart of the modern age, making those who control it the wealthiest and most powerful men on earth. Black Gold: The Story of Oil narrates the stories of these men - including John D. Rockefeller and William Mellon - and the empires they built. Learn how oil came to dominate American industry - and about the nation's current dependency - and discover why the resource continues to cause global flare-ups.

Empires of Industry presents the comprehensive history of "black gold," the resource that continues to govern our world.