National Oklahoma Day

Young man in cowboy hat, riding a horse among rolling hills, wearing western style attire, Oklahoma scenery.. — National oklahoma day illustration

Hey there, folks! Listen up, because today we're diving into the wonderful world of National Oklahoma Day! Get ready for some good ol' Southern fun!

When is Oklahoma Day?

It's national oklahoma day on the 8th June.

A Brief History of National Oklahoma Day

Yeehaw! National Oklahoma Day is a special day dedicated to celebrating the captivating state of Oklahoma. Every year on June 8th, folks from all over gather to honor the great Sooner State and everything it stands for.

The origins of this fantastic day can be traced back to the dawn of the internet. On June 8, 2018, social media was buzzing with excitement about Oklahoma, with a whopping 25 mentions in a single day! That's a whole lotta love for one state!

Getting to Know Oklahoma

Oklahoma is a land of diverse landscapes, from rolling prairies to ancient mountains. It's home to friendly folks, mouthwatering cuisine, and a rich cultural heritage.

The state gets its name from the Choctaw words "okla" meaning "people" and "humma" meaning "red." So you can say Oklahoma is the land of the red people, but not the embarrassed kind. It's a proud kind of red!

Did you know that Oklahoma is known as the "Sooner State"? No, it's not because everyone rushes to get things done. The nickname actually comes from the settlers who illegally claimed land in the Oklahoma Territory before it officially opened for settlement. They were known as "sooners" because they got there sooner than they were supposed to. Sneaky, huh?

Celebrating National Oklahoma Day

So, how can you join the celebration on National Oklahoma Day? Here are a few ideas:

Host an Oklahoma-themed party complete with delicious barbecue, sweet tea, and a hoedown dance-off.
Take a road trip through the Sooner State and explore its natural beauty. Don't forget to visit the iconic Route 66!
Learn about Oklahoma's rich Native American history by visiting the many cultural sites and museums.
Show your support for Oklahoma sports teams and cheer them on to victory!

Conclusion

There you have it, folks! National Oklahoma Day is a time to honor and celebrate all things Oklahoma. So grab your cowboy boots, put on your Stetson hat, and join the fun in commemorating this incredible state! Happy National Oklahoma Day!

History behind the term 'Oklahoma'

1803

The Louisiana Purchase

In 1803, the United States acquired a vast territory known as the Louisiana Purchase from France. This territory included present-day Oklahoma and was bought for a total of $15 million. The acquisition of this land laid the foundation for the eventual settlement and founding of the state of Oklahoma.

1828

Choctaw Treaty

In 1828, the United States signed a treaty with the Choctaw tribe, one of the major indigenous groups in the area. This treaty allowed the federal government to relocate the tribe from their ancestral lands in the southeastern United States to what is now Oklahoma. The forced removal of the Native Americans, also known as the Trail of Tears, played a significant role in shaping the demographics and cultural landscape of Oklahoma.

1889

Land Run of 1889

On April 22, 1889, thousands of settlers, known as 'Boomers,' gathered at the border of Oklahoma territory, ready to claim their piece of land. At noon, the cannon blast signaled the start of the Land Run, and a chaotic race began. Settlers rushed to stake their claims, leading to a frenzied scramble for land. This event marked the official opening of the Unassigned Lands, inspiring the nickname 'Boomer's Paradise' for Oklahoma territory.

1907

Statehood

After years of territorial status, Oklahoma became the 46th state of the United States on November 16, 1907. It was the last of the contiguous United States to be admitted into the Union. The name 'Oklahoma' was derived from the Choctaw words 'okla' meaning 'people' and 'humma' meaning 'red,' conveying the deep Native American heritage of the region.

Did you know?

Did you know that Oklahoma is home to the largest population of American Indians in the United States? Soak in the rich Native American heritage while celebrating National Oklahoma Day!