7th edition of the Map of Near and Middle East Oil. Published by B. Orchard Lisle, International Oil Consultant, Pertroleum Technologist, Research Analystd, 1965. Majestic Bldg., Fort Worth Texas
Networks are a central visual and analytical feature of this map. Here’s a breakdown of the networks present, what they mean, and how they relate to the map’s context:
1. Oil and Gas Pipeline Networks
Major Pipelines: Heavy lines traverse the map, notably from Iraq (Kirkuk) to the Mediterranean (Tripoli, Haifa), from the Persian Gulf inland, and across the Arabian Peninsula. These pipelines connect oilfields to export terminals and refineries, forming the literal backbone of the Middle Eastern oil economy. Example: The Iraq Petroleum Company pipeline runs from northern Iraq westward to the Mediterranean. Additional Examples: Pipelines from Abadan (Iran), Dhahran-Dammam (Saudi Arabia), and Kuwait to coastlines and terminals.
Heavy lines traverse the map, notably from Iraq (Kirkuk) to the Mediterranean (Tripoli, Haifa), from the Persian Gulf inland, and across the Arabian Peninsula. These pipelines connect oilfields to export terminals and refineries, forming the literal backbone of the Middle Eastern oil economy. Legend: The legend at lower center distinguishes between types of pipelines (existing, under construction, projected).
2. Oilfield and Refinery Networks
Fields and Refineries: Networks of oilfields (clusters of wells, symbolized by icons) are shown in: Southeastern Iran Kuwait Eastern Saudi Arabia (Ghawar, Dhahran) Northern Iraq Bahrain Qatar Baku (Azerbaijan)
Networks of oilfields (clusters of wells, symbolized by icons) are shown in: Refineries and Terminals: These are networked nodes, connected by pipelines and shipping routes.
3. Concession and Ownership Networks
Company Areas: Shaded patterns and color blocks delineate which multinational or national company controls which areas. Inset tables and lower text blocks list the principal owners, revealing a web of corporate and political control stretching across national borders.
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