The blowout of the Ixtoc I oil well occurred in June 1979, approximately 50 miles off the coast of Ciudad del Carmen in Mexico's southern Gulf of Mexico. Drilling operations led by the Mexican state-owned oil company Pemex experienced a catastrophic failure, resulting in the uncontrolled release of crude oil. The blowout preventer, which is designed to stop such disasters, failed to maintain control despite multiple attempts to address the situation. As a result, an estimated 3 million barrels of oil were discharged into the Gulf, making it the second-worst accidental oil spill in history, surpassed only by the Deepwater Horizon spill that occurred decades later.

Over the course of several months, extensive containment and cleanup measures were enacted. The spill had dire consequences for local marine habitats, impacting fishing industries and coastal communities dependent on tourism. International help was sought, as the spill's enormity required technological expertise not readily available. Various techniques, including the use of dispersants and controlled burns, were employed in an effort to mitigate the environmental damage.

The incident not only highlighted the risks associated with offshore drilling but also led to a reevaluation of safety practices and regulations in the oil industry worldwide. Furthermore, it increased public awareness and concern regarding oil spills and their environmental consequences, prompting calls for more stringent oversight and preventive measures.