CHEVRON, or ChevronTexaco since the merger with Texaco in 2001, describes itself as an integrated energy company based on oil-equivalent reserves and production, and is the second largest U.S.-based integrated oil, gas, and chemical company. As of September 2003, the company was the world's fourth largest publicly-traded oil major active in more than 180 countries, employing just over 50,000 people.

Worldwide, the company operates 23 wholly owned and joint-venture oil refineries, and 32 chemical manufacturing sites through a 50-50 joint venture with ConocoPhillips. It has acquired the reputation of being one of the most conservative oil companies. Like many oil companies, Chevron has been accused of illegal price-fixing, tax evasion[Page 160] and contravening environmental regulations. According to the U.S. Public Interest Research Group, Chevron paid more ...