Babylonian Petroleum

Babylonian Petroleum refers to the early use of natural oils and bitumen in ancient Mesopotamia, particularly in Babylon, around 4000-2000 BCE. The Babylonians utilized these substances for various purposes, including construction, waterproofing, and medicinal applications. They also employed bitumen as a binding agent in their impressive building projects, such as the famous ziggurats. While not petroleum in the modern sense, their use of natural hydrocarbons laid foundational practices for later civilizations, highlighting an early understanding of the resources available in their environment. This historical use reflects humanity's long relationship with natural resources for practical needs.