BHP
From the desolate outback to global dominance: the audacious journey of BHP through the eyes of its enigmatic founder, Charles Rasp.
Quick Facts
- Founded
- 1885
- Founder
- Charles Rasp
- Origin
- Australia
Founders
Story Chapters
Timeline
BHP Founded
Charles Rasp, a boundary rider, discovered rich silver deposits at Broken Hill, leading to the founding of Broken Hill Proprietary Company.
Iron Ore Discovery
BHP expanded its operations by discovering iron ore deposits in Iron Knob, South Australia, marking its entry into iron production.
Steel Production Begins
BHP opened its first steelworks in Newcastle, New South Wales, significantly expanding its industrial capabilities.
Mount Newman Joint Venture
BHP formed a joint venture to develop the Mount Newman iron ore project in Western Australia, which became a major source of iron ore.
Petroleum Expansion
BHP entered the petroleum industry, diversifying its portfolio and becoming a significant player in the global energy market.
BHP Billiton Merger
BHP merged with the British company Billiton, creating one of the world's largest mining and resource companies.
South32 Spin-off
BHP demerged its non-core operations into a new company, South32, to focus on its primary mining assets.
Samarco Dam Disaster Settlement
BHP reached a settlement agreement following the Samarco dam disaster in Brazil, addressing one of the industry's worst environmental incidents.
Climate Action Commitment
BHP announced its commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and investing in sustainable mining practices to combat climate change.
Unification of Dual Listing
BHP unified its dual-listed company structure, simplifying its corporate governance and enhancing shareholder value.
Connected Across The Archives
Explore specific connections to other archives—civilizations, conflicts, dynasties, and treaties that share history with this company.

Civilization Archive
(2)Aboriginal Australian Civilizations
BHP's activities on Aboriginal lands underscore the historical conflict between industrial expansion and the preservation of indigenous heritage.
British Imperial Civilization
BHP's emergence during the British Empire reflects its alignment with imperial economic strategies, shaping global resource extraction practices.
Explore Related Archives
Great companies don't emerge in a vacuum. They rise from the foundations of civilizations, the ambitions of rulers, and the aftermath of conflicts. Explore the historical context:
