As an expert in the field of energy economics, I've spent considerable time analyzing global oil consumption patterns. The dynamics of oil usage are complex and influenced by a multitude of factors, including economic activity, population size, industrial development, and energy policies.

The United States has historically been the largest consumer of oil in the world. In 2012, it consumed a staggering 18.5 million barrels of oil per day (mbd), which represented nearly 20% of the world's total daily oil consumption. This level of consumption is a testament to the country's vast industrial base, large population, and high dependency on oil for transportation, power generation, and various industrial processes.

However, the highest recorded oil consumption in the United States occurred in 2005, when it reached a peak of 20.8mbd. This peak was driven by a combination of economic growth and a period of relatively low oil prices, which encouraged increased consumption.

It is important to note that while the United States has been the largest oil consumer, other countries and regions have also shown significant oil demand. China, for instance, has seen its oil consumption grow rapidly due to its booming economy and industrialization. As of recent years, China has been closing the gap with the United States in terms of total oil consumption.

The oil consumption patterns are also shifting due to global efforts to combat climate change and transition towards more sustainable energy sources. Many countries are investing in renewable energy and electric vehicles, which could potentially reduce oil demand in the future.

In conclusion, the United States has been the largest oil consumer, but the global landscape is changing with emerging economies and a push towards cleaner energy. It is crucial to monitor these trends closely as they will significantly impact the future of oil consumption worldwide.

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The United States. The United States, the world's biggest oil consuming country, consumed 18.5 million barrels of oil per day (mbd) in 2012, which accounted for nearly 20% of the world's total oil consumption per day. The highest level of oil consumption in US history was 20.8mbd, which occurred in 2005.Dec 8, 2013read more >>