BBC Documentaries

Scotland's First Oil Rush

Directed by Brian Ross
TV-PG
2016 • E142    May 16, 2016    60m
Scotland witnessed the world's first true "oil rush", when inventor James "Paraffin" Young first refined lighting fuel from a shale rock known as "torbanite" in 1851. There followed more than a century of the shale oil industry, which employed thousands and whose fortunes ebbed and flowed with industrialisation and two world wars.

Presented by geologist Professor Iain Stewart, this film tells the story of shale, its lasting impact on one Scottish community - West Lothian - and the massive and unique landmarks still visible today.

Where to Watch Scotland's First Oil Rush

Cast of Scotland's First Oil Rush

  • Iain StewartGuest Star
  • Brian RossDirector

 

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