What was the initial use of oil? What single factor was responsible for a rapid increase in oil consumption?

The initial use of oil was for lighting and lubrication, primarily in whaling and mining operations. A single factor that was responsible for a rapid increase in oil consumption was the invention of the internal combustion engine. This engine brought about a massive increase in industrial productivity, revolutionizing transportation and leading to the widespread use of cars and other motorized vehicles. This created a huge demand for oil and sparked an economic boom in the oil industry.