What is the history of Anadarko Petroleum?

Anadarko Petroleum Corporation has a rich history that dates back to its founding in 1959. The company was started as the Anadarko Oil Company in Moore, Oklahoma, by a group of investors led by J. L. “Jack” C. Harris. Their initial focus was on oil exploration and production in the Mid-Continent region of the United States. Over the years, Anadarko grew through several mergers, acquisitions, and a strong emphasis on technological advancements in the energy sector. In the late 1970s, Anadarko expanded into natural gas and began diversifying its geographic reach, exploring opportunities in the Gulf of Mexico and overseas. Notably, in 1986, Anadarko made a pivotal acquisition by purchasing the assets of the Glenwood Petroleum Corporation, which significantly boosted its production capabilities. During the 1990s and into the early 2000s, the company continued to expand and grow, making strategic acquisitions that increased its footprint in key basins, particularly in the Rocky Mountains and offshore regions. Anadarko was publicly traded on the New York Stock Exchange and became known for its commitment to exploration and development of both oil and natural gas resources. The company made headlines in the mid-2010s for its role in the burgeoning shale revolution, particularly in the Permian Basin, where it engaged in innovative hydraulic fracturing techniques. In 2019, Anadarko was acquired by Occidental Petroleum Corporation for approximately thirty-eight billion dollars. This acquisition allowed Occidental to enhance its portfolio and strengthen its position in the oil and gas industry. Today, Anadarko's legacy and technological contributions continue to influence practices within the energy sector, highlighting the company's pivotal role in the evolution of petroleum exploration and production. For more information about its current operations or initiatives, one might consider looking at Anadarko's official website.