Energy Crisis in Europe: The Shift in Energy Sources and US Involvement

The Suez crisis played a pivotal role in shaping Europe's energy landscape, as it exposed the vulnerability of European powers dependent on foreign oil. While Germany took a catastrophic path under the Nazis, Britain managed to cling on through the Second World War with its military position in the Middle East. However, the United States did not want European states to rely on oil from the Western Hemisphere or the Soviet Union, leaving Britain to ensure West European oil security. When Britain attempted to defend West European energy security during the Suez crisis, the United States intervened to protect its own interests. This seismic shock prompted West European governments to reevaluate their energy security strategies, leading to a shift towards Soviet oil, gas, and nuclear power. The Suez crisis marked a turning point that forced West European states to seek alternative solutions to their energy problems.