Oklahoma City history

The history of Oklahoma City is a vivid example of the rapid settlement of the American West. The city emerged literally in a single day, which forever defined its dynamic and enterprising character. Its history is inextricably linked to the last great "land run" in the USA.

Foundation: A City Born in a Day

The official founding date of Oklahoma City is considered to be April 22, 1889. On this day, the US government opened the so-called "Unassigned Lands" in Indian Territory for settlement. At a signal, thousands of settlers rushed to claim plots as part of the famous Land Run of 1889. By the evening of that same day, a tent city had risen on the site of the future metropolis, numbering around 10,000 people. This rapid start demonstrated the incredible enthusiasm and thirst for opportunity that reigned in that era. By 1890, the settlement officially received city status.

Key Factors of Formation

The rapid growth of Oklahoma City was driven by several key factors:

• Geographical Location and Trade: Initially, the city emerged near a railway station, which immediately made it an important logistics point. In subsequent years, it transformed into a major transport hub and the centre of a vast agricultural region specialising in livestock and cotton cultivation.
• Economic Boom: The early economy was based on the processing of agricultural products. However, the real turning point was the discovery of oil in 1928. Oil extraction and refining became the second most important industry, providing the city with a powerful economic boost and an influx of capital.
• Political Status: The rapidly growing and economically developing city soon gained political significance as well. In 1910, Oklahoma City became the administrative centre of the state of Oklahoma, firmly securing its leading position in the region.

Early Cultural and Economic Features

From the very beginning, Oklahoma City developed at an astonishing speed. Just a month after its founding, five banks were already operating and six newspapers were being published in the city, testifying to the instant formation of urban infrastructure. For the first few decades, the city's economy was firmly linked to its status as a centre of the cattle market — one of the largest in the USA at that time. The discovery of oil fields not only enriched the city but also shaped its modern appearance, turning it into an important centre of the US energy industry.

Chronology of Key Events

The history of Oklahoma City is a tale of rapid growth, overcoming difficulties, and constant renewal. From a chaotic land run to a modern metropolis, the city has traversed a unique path of development.

• April 22, 1889 — As a result of the famous Land Run on the "Unassigned Lands", a settlement numbering about 10,000 people emerges in a single day.
• July 15, 1890 — The settlement officially receives the status of the city of Oklahoma City.
• June 10, 1910 — Oklahoma City becomes the capital of the state of Oklahoma, surpassing the city of Guthrie.
• December 4, 1928 — Oil is discovered within the city limits, launching a powerful economic boom and defining the city's development for decades to come.
• 1958 — Sit-ins led by Clara Luper begin, becoming an important stage in the civil rights movement and desegregation in the American South.
• 1965 — An ambitious urban reconstruction plan, known as the "Pei Plan", is adopted, which radically changed the appearance of the city centre, though it drew mixed reactions.
• December 14, 1993 — Residents approve the MAPS (Metropolitan Area Projects) programme, a temporary sales tax to finance the construction and renovation of sports, cultural, and entertainment facilities in the city centre.
• April 19, 1995 — A terrorist attack occurs at the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building, claiming the lives of 168 people and becoming one of the darkest pages in US history.
• April 19, 2000 — The Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum opens on the site of the bombed building in memory of the tragedy's victims.
• 2008 — The professional basketball team "Seattle SuperSonics" moves to the city, receiving the new name "Oklahoma City Thunder" and becoming a symbol of the city's resurgence.

Stages of Transformation: From the Wild West to a Modern Metropolis

Oklahoma City's development path is not just a chronology of events, but a history of several deep transformations. The city has gone through a shift in economic models, massive urban reimagining, and a cultural renaissance, all while preserving its unique pioneer spirit.

• Cultural Evolution: Initially, the city was formed under the influence of Wild West culture, which is still reflected today in the work of the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum. However, over time, Oklahoma City has turned into a notable cultural hub with a vibrant creative life. Entire art quarters have emerged and developed, such as the Paseo Arts District and the Plaza District, known for their galleries, studios, and street art. The opening of the modern arts centre, Oklahoma Contemporary, cemented the city's status as a place where art is valued and supported.
• Economic Diversification: Although the oil boom of 1928 laid the foundation for the city's prosperity, today its economy is much more multifaceted. Oklahoma City has successfully overcome reliance on a single industry. Key sectors have become the aerospace industry, largely thanks to the major Tinker Air Force Base, as well as biosciences, healthcare, and information technology. This diversification has ensured the city's stability and attractiveness for new investments.
• Urban Renaissance: Starting from the second half of the 20th century, Oklahoma City experienced several waves of renewal. The MAPS programme, funded by a sales tax, became a model of civic initiative and led to the creation of iconic landmarks, including the canal in the Bricktown district and a modern sports arena. Having overcome the tragedy of the 1995 attack, the city demonstrated incredible resilience and unity, which gave new impetus to development. The arrival of the NBA team, the "Oklahoma City Thunder", in 2008 became a bright symbol of this revival, marking the city's transformation into a dynamic metropolis looking confidently towards the future.

The architectural appearance of Oklahoma City is a visual history of its rapid development, from the times of the Wild West to the modern metropolis. Each era left its unique features on the urban landscape, creating an eclectic yet harmonious blend of styles.

Early Period and the Art Deco Era (Late 19th – Early 20th Century)

After the Land Run of 1889, the city's first buildings were utilitarian in nature, but with the arrival of prosperity in the early 20th century, the architecture became more refined. The true flourishing occurred in the 1920s–1930s, coinciding with the oil boom. This period gifted the city with magnificent examples of the Art Deco style, characterised by strict geometry, luxurious materials, and streamlined forms. Key monuments of this era include:

• First National Center: Built in 1931, this skyscraper became a symbol of the city's prosperity. Its elegant silhouette and rich decor remain impressive to this day.
• City Hall: Another striking example of Art Deco, demonstrating the strict lines and monumentality characteristic of government buildings of that time.
• Civic Center Music Hall: The building combines elements of Art Deco and Neoclassicism, reflecting the cultural ambitions of the growing city.

Post-War Modernism and Urban Renewal (1950s–1980s)

In the mid-20th century, like many American cities, Oklahoma City embraced ideas of modernism and urban renewal. This period is associated with the implementation of the ambitious but controversial "Pei Plan" in the 1960s, which involved the demolition of many historic buildings in the centre to build new, modern structures. The architecture of this time was distinguished by functionality, simple forms, and the use of glass and concrete. Although this stage radically changed the look of downtown, it also laid the foundation for future infrastructure.

Modern Era: From MAPS to the 21st Century (1990s – Present)

Starting from 1993, the urban development of Oklahoma City has been defined by the MAPS (Metropolitan Area Projects) programme. This series of initiatives, funded by a sales tax, aimed to create new public, cultural, and sports facilities, leading to a true renaissance of the city. The architecture of this period is more eclectic and human-centric. In the 21st century, the city skyline has finally taken shape as a symbol of new economic power.

• Devon Energy Center: Opened in 2012, this 50-storey skyscraper made of glass and steel became not only the tallest building in the state but also a symbol of modern Oklahoma City. Its elegant, upward-soaring design and eco-friendly solutions reflect the city's status as an important energy hub.
• Paycom Center: Built as part of the MAPS programme, this multi-purpose arena is the centre of the city's sporting and cultural life.
• Boardwalk at Bricktown Complex: The city plans to build a new ambitious complex, which may include one of the tallest skyscrapers in the USA, speaking to the ceaseless growth and development of Oklahoma City.

Outstanding Personalities Associated with the City

Oklahoma City has been the birthplace or an important stage in life for many talented and influential people who have left their mark on the culture, sports, and public life of the USA.

• Ralph Ellison (1914–1994) — Writer and literary critic. Born and raised in Oklahoma City. His novel "Invisible Man" (1952) is considered one of the greatest works of American literature of the 20th century and was awarded the National Book Award.
• Clara Luper (1923–2011) — Teacher and pioneer of the civil rights movement. In 1958, she organised and led one of the country's first sit-in protests at the Katz Drug Store in Oklahoma City, which became a key event in the struggle for desegregation in the South.
• Johnny Bench (born 1947) — Legendary baseball player, member of the Baseball Hall of Fame. Born in Oklahoma City, he is considered one of the greatest catchers in the history of the sport. His statue is installed near the baseball stadium in the Bricktown district.
• Vince Gill (born 1957) — Famous country musician, singer, and songwriter. Although born in neighbouring Norman, his development as a musician is closely linked to Oklahoma City, where he grew up. Gill is the winner of more than 20 Grammy Awards.
• The Flaming Lips (formed in 1983) — World-renowned rock band. The collective was founded in Oklahoma City and remains closely connected to the city, regularly holding iconic concerts and events here. The group is famous for its psychedelic melodies and vivid live performances.
• Megan Mullally (born 1958) — Actress, comedian, and singer. Moved to Oklahoma City as a child and spent her youth here. Best known for the role of Karen Walker in the popular sitcom "Will & Grace", for which she received two Emmy Awards.
• Blake Griffin (born 1989) — Professional basketball player, NBA star. Born and raised in Oklahoma City, where he began his sports career. He was selected first overall in the 2009 NBA draft and has participated in the All-Star Game multiple times.