Way back in 1973 OPEC grabbed the US by the 'nads and squeezed. Predictably, we flinched and learned nothing from that period. Some folks, especially politicians, have extremely short memories. At a time when the sane response would have been to enact a new "Manhattan Project" where energy was concerned the US did nothing. Today oil is over $80/bbl and OPEC still controls our supply and the government actually gets in the way of energy innovations that could free us from their grip.
OPEC states declare oil embargo History.com This Day in History 10/17/1973
OPEC states declare oil embargo History.com This Day in History 10/17/1973