Prior to the twenty-first century, what events influenced offshore oil exploration in the united states the most?

Oil spills, is the right answer.

Explanation:

The discharge of a liquid petroleum hydrocarbon into the atmosphere, particularly the aquatic ecosystem, due to personal enterprise, and is a kind of pollution, is known as an oil spill. The term is basically used in the context to marine oil spills, where oil is discharged into the sea or coastal lagoons, but spills may likewise occur on the ground. Prior to the 20th century, the oil spill impacted marine oil exploration in the U.S.

answer; i believe the correct answer is (favorable balance);