Delve into the history of energy resource conflicts, their present status, and the potential effects of today's energy production decisions on the future of humanity.

This book examines international and sometimes intranational conflicts over energy resources, including ancient empires, 20th-century wars over oil, and the explosive growth of renewable energy. The volume begins with a series of chapters tracing the evolution and future implications of energy production and clashes over these vital resources. Next, readers will discover a collection of essays addressing fascinating yet sometimes contentious facets of the subject, including the current limits of renewable energy sources and the role nuclear power should play. A collection of 50 encyclopedic entries round out the book, providing readers with concise explanations of key concepts and terms.

Energy resource conflicts have shaped the world we live in. After humans settled across the planet, growing empires began to compete for resources. First, they competed for wood, then steel and coal. The ability to mine these resources and turn them into trains, ships, and weapons decided which countries would dominate the world. Oil became the most important international resource by the turn of the 20th century and has remained so until the present day. But, as the authors argue, humans have the technology to transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy for the vast majority of their energy needs, despite corporate fossil fuel interests. Using advanced statistics on the use and growth of all major energy sources, this book is an excellent source of information on the predicted growth of various forms of energy as well as the inevitable—yet not necessarily peaceful—transition toward renewable and carbon-free energy sources.