Oklahoma

North America, United States
United States

People from Oklahoma are called:

Male/General:

Oklahoman

Pronunciation:

/ˌoʊkləˈhoʊmən/

Quick Facts

Population:
4,050,000 (2024 est.)
Country:
United States
Region:
North America

Explore Oklahoma

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Etymology & Origin

The name Oklahoma comes from the Choctaw words okla ("people") and humma ("red"), together meaning "red people." The term was coined by Choctaw Chief Allen Wright in 1866 to describe Indian Territory.

Oklahoma became the 46th state on November 16, 1907. The demonym Oklahoman is formed by adding -an to the state name.

Notable People Associated with Oklahoma

Generations of talented individuals have been associated with this vibrant place.

Musician

Garth Brooks

Tulsa, Oklahoma

One of the best-selling music artists of all time, known for integrating rock and roll elements into country music.

Country music superstardom
Reba McEntire

McAlester, Oklahoma

Often referred to as 'The Queen of Country', she has sold over 75 million records worldwide.

Country music and acting

Actor

Brad Pitt

Shawnee, Oklahoma

Academy Award-winning actor and producer, known for roles in 'Fight Club', 'Once Upon a Time in Hollywood', and 'Moneyball'.

Film acting and producing
Bill Hader

Tulsa, Oklahoma

Comedian, actor, and writer known for his work on 'Saturday Night Live' and the dark comedy series 'Barry'.

Comedy and acting

Entertainer

Will Rogers

Oologah, Indian Territory (now Oklahoma)

Cherokee-American humorist, actor, and social commentator who was one of the most famous celebrities in the 1920s and 30s.

Humor and social commentary

Athlete

Barry Sanders

Wichita, Kansas (raised in Oklahoma)

NFL Hall of Fame running back who played for the Detroit Lions and is considered one of the greatest in football history.

Professional football

Artist

Maria Tallchief

Fairfax, Oklahoma

The first American prima ballerina and the first Native American to hold the rank.

Classical ballet

Author

Ralph Ellison

Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

Novelist and literary critic best known for his masterpiece 'Invisible Man', which won the National Book Award.

Literature

About Oklahoma

  • Capital city: Oklahoma City.
  • Energy (oil & natural gas) and agriculture are key industries.
  • Significant Native American tribal presence and history.
  • Admitted as the 46th state in 1907.

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