The Strait of Hormuz continues to be one of the biggest topics in the world. It is having a huge impact on global shipping, with ships held up every time it closes. As a result, it raises fears about the supplies of key products in the future, including oil, natural gas, fertiliser, and ammonia. Ultimately, there are concerns about food shortages and price rises.
While it may seem that we’re talking more and more about fertilisers today, they have actually been significant for almost two centuries. In fact, securing the key resources to make them has caused wars and political tension numerous times. After-all, food production is the foundation of industrialisation, vital for supporting larger populations and economies.
Origins
The first Industrial Revolution was a key moment in our history. However, it wouldn’t have been as massive, or would have taken longer to develop, without food production increases. The key thing is industrialisation initially required more labour. As a result, it took more and more workers from the fields. It meant the remaining farmers had to work harder to produce enough food to keep feeding people and to supply the industrial machine.
One of the key developments was the creation of the first chemical fertiliser in the 1840s. After that there were significant developments in the following centuries. It gave birth to the industry we know today, with farmers relying on nitrogen, phosphorous, and potassium fertilisers to maximise crop yields and growth times.
Strife
As we said, securing the resources to make fertilisers has been the cause of numerous wars and political tension. For example, as the British and French empires grew on the back of industrialisation, they got control of key areas for nitrogen and phosphate. This includes areas in Peru, Egypt, Tunisia, Algeria, and Morocco. However, it led to problems with other countries trying to secure the resources for themselves.
One of the first conflicts was fought over the Chincha Islands in South America. Spain was trying to put pressure on their former colonies, Chile, Bolivia, Ecuador, and Peru, by seizing the islands, a key location for nitrogen-rich guano. Therefore, from 1865 to 1879 there were a number of naval battles, including Papudo, Abtao, and Callao.
The War of the Pacific was another key event in the same region. Chile took control of nitrate mines in the Atacama Desert, likely eyeing the riches as a way to overcome their economic crisis. However, it led to conflict with Peru and Bolivia, leading to an alliance of the two. There were numerous battles between 1879 and 1884, including naval and land campaigns. Significant battles include Iquique, Angamos, and Tacna.
Italy has one of the most interesting histories of pursuing fertiliser. They were late to the empire-building party, acting to try to gain ground on Britain, France, and Spain. This saw them take control of countries in North and East Africa. Most notably, they began searching in Libya for phosphate, believing they would find huge reserves. However, they were wrong and became reliant on supplies from Tunisia and Egypt. Their entry into WWII was a huge mistake, causing the British and French to cut off supplies. So, it caused Italian agricultural output to plummet and food shortages became much worse.
Ordering fertiliser from a family business
As you can see, food production and fertilisers are vital parts of the modern economy. It’s something countries have been aware of for centuries. So, it’s no surprise there are concerns about the war in Iran and the status of the Strait of Hormuz. It could have a massive impact on countries all around the world.
If you’re looking to order fertiliser, JS Hubbuck Ltd would be happy to help. We support farmers across Northern England, Scotland, and beyond. You can contact us to discuss your needs and we’ll suggest products. Then, if you do buy from us, we’ll arrange safe, reliable delivery.