Final answer:
The oil crisis in the U.S. during the late 1970s was caused by a combination of factors, including the 1973 oil embargo and the Iranian Revolution in 1979. These events led to a shortage of oil and an increase in prices.
Step-by-step explanation:
The oil crisis in the U.S. during the late 1970s was caused by a combination of factors. One of the main causes was the 1973 oil embargo imposed by Arab nations belonging to the Organization of Arab Petroleum Exporting Countries (OAPEC) in retaliation for U.S. support of Israel during the Yom Kippur War. The embargo led to a shortage of oil, pushing up prices and creating gas shortages for consumers. Another factor was the Iranian Revolution in 1979, which resulted in the seizure of Iranian oil fields and a further increase in oil prices. Additionally, the U.S. economy was already facing challenges such as stagnation and increased competition from abroad.