The quote highlights how petroleum fuel revolutionized human life starting in the mid-19th century. It describes how this new energy source freed people from laborious tasks and provided a lifestyle of comfort and abundance for many. Furthermore, it emphasizes that by enabling large cities to import food from around the globe, petroleum contributed significantly to population growth.
Beyond its literal meaning, the quote underscores the profound impact of technological advancements on society. The advent of refined petroleum not only transformed daily life but also had far-reaching economic and demographic consequences. It illustrates how a single innovation can trigger a cascade of changes in various spheres, such as agriculture, transportation, industry, and urbanization. This transformation accelerated global interconnectedness and facilitated the expansion of human populations by ensuring reliable food supplies for growing cities.
James Buchan is a Scottish novelist, essayist, and journalist known for his insightful commentary on history and politics. His work often reflects on significant historical events and their impact on society, as seen in this quote about petroleum's role in shaping modern life.
