Bad Company

Under the leadership of Robert Samuel Kerr and Dean Anderson McGee, Kerr-McGee transformed from a small oil-drilling business into a conglomerate. Despite Kerr's personal tragedies, he achieved wealth and political success in the oil industry with Anderson's partnership. Kerr's political journey, from governor to senator, showcased his ambition and influence in national policies, benefiting both his state and business interests. However, Kerr-McGee's entry into the uranium market in the 1950s exploited Navajo workers with low wages and hazardous conditions. Despite the dangers, Kerr-McGee prioritized profits over worker safety, contributing to ongoing environmental damage and health issues among the Navajo community.

In the 1960s, Kerr-McGee expanded its operations in Oklahoma by acquiring a refinery in Cushing to process uranium and thorium, radioactive metals with potential uses but also cancer risks. After a tragic explosion at the Cushing Facility in 1966, operations were moved to the new Cimarron Facility in Crescent, where Karen Silkwood eventually took a job.

This episode was written by Cathy O’Neal and Vincent Strange. Silkwood is produced, researched, and narrated by Erica Lee with editing by Vincent Strange. Additional research by Aimee Worley. Artwork by Erica Lee, theme music by Brightside Studio.

For more information about the podcast, including sources, please visit gonecold.com/silkwood. 

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