Oklahoma - The Sooner State

Oklahoma

Oklahoma is a state where the Great Plains meet deep cultural history and natural beauty. Located in the south-central United States, it’s known for its rolling prairies, red dirt landscapes, and dramatic weather—from blazing summers to powerful storms. Oklahoma’s name comes from the Choctaw words okla and humma, meaning “red people,” a tribute to the Native American tribes who have long called this land home. In fact, Oklahoma is unique for being the site of Indian Territory before statehood, and today, it’s home to 39 federally recognized tribes.

Admitted as the 46th state in 1907, Oklahoma played key roles in the oil boom of the early 20th century and in the Dust Bowl of the 1930s, a period that shaped its economy and identity. The state is also famous for Route 66, classic Western culture, and a strong legacy of music, from country to jazz. With bustling cities like Oklahoma City and Tulsa, and landmarks like the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum and the Oklahoma City National Memorial, the state offers a blend of tradition and modern life. Whether you're drawn to Native heritage, wide-open skies, or resilient history, Oklahoma has a story worth exploring.

Oklahoma Symbols

Fast Facts and Interesting Facts
Fact Detail Interesting Facts
Statehood November 16, 1907 (46th state)
  • The name "Oklahoma" comes from the Choctaw words *okla* and *humma*, meaning "red people."
  • Oklahoma has the largest Native American population per capita in the U.S. and 39 tribal nations.
  • It was originally designated as Indian Territory before becoming a state in 1907.
  • The Land Run of 1889 opened up Oklahoma Territory to settlers—those who entered early were called “Sooners.”
  • Tornado Alley runs through Oklahoma, making it one of the most tornado-prone states.
  • The state is home to the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum in Oklahoma City.
  • Oil and natural gas are major parts of Oklahoma’s economy and history.
  • Oklahoma has more man-made lakes than any other state (over 200).
  • Route 66, the historic highway, runs through Oklahoma and is celebrated in several towns.
  • In 1995, the Oklahoma City bombing became the deadliest domestic terrorist attack in U.S. history at the time.
  • The town of Beaver, Oklahoma, proudly hosts the annual World Championship Cow Chip Throwing Contest.
  • Oklahoma is the only U.S. state that lies entirely within the drainage basin of the Mississippi River.
Capital Oklahoma City
Largest City Oklahoma City
Nickname The Sooner State
Population Approx. 4 million
Area 69,899 sq mi
Region South Central
Bordering States Texas, Kansas, Missouri, Arkansas, Colorado, New Mexico
Major Industries Energy (oil and natural gas), agriculture, aerospace, manufacturing, biotechnology
Geography Plains, prairies, forests, low mountains (e.g., Ouachita and Arbuckle ranges), and over 200 lakes
State Bird Scissor-tailed Flycatcher
State Flower Indian Blanket
State Tree Eastern Redbud

Our Content
Oklahoma Interactive Map

Interactive and Printable Oklahoma Maps and Map Activities

This section features numerous interactive and printable Oklahoma maps. Students can even use our Maptivation program to make their own Oklahoma map.

Oklahoma History

History of Oklahoma

Oklahoma's history began with Native American civilizations long before European contact, and in the 1800s it became Indian Territory where many tribes were forcibly relocated along the Trail of Tears. It became the 46th U.S. state in 1907 after a land rush era that brought settlers into former tribal lands.
Sam Houston

Famous People from Oklahoma

Oklahoma is home to many famous individuals, including Jim Thorpe, a legendary athlete of Sac and Fox heritage who won Olympic gold and excelled in multiple sports. Another Oklahoma native is Mickey Mantle, a Hall of Fame baseball player known for his power hitting with the New York Yankees.
Comprehension

Oklahoma Literacy and Comprehension Exercises

This section offers a variety of literacy and reading comprehension activities, including engaging passages with question sets, cloze reading exercises, and lessons on text elements and structure. These resources are generally suitable for students in grades 4–8.
Oklahoma Symbols

Fun Oklahoma Printables and Coloring Activities

This section features fun and educational Oklahoma-themed coloring activities and printables, including state symbols, a state flag outline, a 'Welcome to Oklahoma' sign, and much more!
Collage America

Oklahoma and United States Online Games

This section provides some really exciting online games such as Oklahoma, or Not Oklahoma, Collage America, Ameriquake, Conquer the States, Draw America, and several more.