Petroleros

Petroleros is a term with distinct meanings depending on the geographical and historical context, though it generally relates to the oil industry. In Argentina, it is a common term used to refer to workers in the petroleum industry, from extraction and refining to transportation and sales. These workers are often organized into powerful unions, such as the Federación Argentina de Trabajadores de la Industria del Petróleo, Gas y Derivados (FATP). The term "petrolero" can sometimes also refer to individuals involved in the broader energy sector, including natural gas.

In Spain, "petrolero" primarily refers to a large ship designed for transporting crude oil or petroleum products, commonly known as an oil tanker. These vessels are crucial for the global movement of oil and are subject to strict international regulations regarding safety and environmental protection due to the inherent risks of carrying such cargo. The Spanish navy also employs vessels called "buques petroleros" which are designed for refueling other ships at sea.

More broadly, the term can be used colloquially in Spanish-speaking countries to describe anyone involved in or associated with the oil business, even if not directly employed in manual labor. This might include executives, geologists, engineers, or even investors in the petroleum sector. The economic and political influence of the oil industry means that individuals and groups associated with it are often significant players in national and international affairs.