Learn facts about Oklahoma for kids.
Last week, we posted facts about Ohio. This week, we are posting quick facts about Oklahoma. You will learn about Oklahoma's state flag, bird, and other facts.
Did you know that Oklahoma was the 46th state to join the Union? Oklahoma officially became a state in the United States on November 16, 1907, marking an important milestone in its history. Situated in the country's South-Central region, Oklahoma is uniquely positioned as a crossroads for various cultural influences and geographical features.
The state is bordered by six other states, showcasing a diverse array of natural landscapes: to the north, it neighbors Kansas; to the northeast, Missouri; to the east, Arkansas; to the south, Texas; to the west, New Mexico; and to the northwest, Colorado. This strategic location contributes to Oklahoma's rich cultural tapestry and economic interactions with neighboring regions.
Oklahoma is the twentieth most significant state in the United States, encompassing approximately 69,899 square miles. This substantial land area boasts a diverse range of environments, from rolling plains to rugged mountains and lush forests.
According to the latest estimates, Oklahoma's population is approximately 3,986,638. This diverse population contributes to the vibrant communities and cultural dynamics throughout the state, making Oklahoma home to many traditions, events, and social fabrics. The state's demographics reflect diverse backgrounds and histories, contributing to its unique character.
Oklahoma famous person alert:
Did you know that Ralph Waldo Ellison was born in Oklahoma
City, Oklahoma? Ralph Waldo Ellison was a famous author. Ralph Waldo Ellison is
best known for his novel, "Invisible Man." To learn more about Ralph Waldo Ellison:
Ensure your parent or caretaker’s permission before clicking on any links.
Quick Facts about Oklahoma:
1. Oklahoma is a state that boasts a rich tapestry of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and unique characteristics. One of its most notable features is its location within Tornado Alley, a region in the central United States that is frequently visited by tornadoes due to its unique climatic conditions. This makes Oklahoma especially interesting to meteorologists and storm chasers alike.
Oklahoma is renowned for its culinary delights, particularly its Southern-style cuisine, which features hearty dishes that reflect the state's Southern heritage. Favorites include chicken-fried steak, barbecue, and various comfort foods that embody the warmth of Southern hospitality.
The state also features stunning mountain ranges, such as the Wichita and Arbuckle Mountains, offering picturesque landscapes and numerous outdoor recreational opportunities. These areas are ideal for hiking, camping, and the great outdoors, attracting nature lovers throughout the year.
Oklahoma is often affectionately referred to by several nicknames, with "The Sooner State" and "Boomer's Paradise" being the most prominent. The term "Sooner" dates back to the land rushes in the late 19th century when individuals who claimed land earlier than allowed were called "Sooners."
The state motto, "Labor omnia vincit," is a powerful expression of perseverance and resilience, translating to "Work Conquers All" from Latin. This motto, which reflects the hardworking spirit of Oklahomans, was officially adopted in 1907 as part of the state's commitment to diligence and dedication.
For convenience, Oklahoma is abbreviated as "OK," a simple yet recognizable reference that has become widely accepted across the nation and beyond. Oklahoma holds a special place in the heart of America through its natural beauty, cultural richness, and enduring spirit.
2. Oklahoma City, the vibrant capital of the state of Oklahoma, was officially designated as the capital on June 11, 1910. This bustling city, which serves as the political and administrative hub of the state, boasts a diverse and dynamic population of approximately 687,726 residents. Known for its rich history and cultural heritage, Oklahoma City has developed into a significant center for commerce, education, and entertainment in the region. The city is characterized by its blend of modern infrastructure and historic landmarks, making it a significant destination for both locals and visitors.
3. The official state bird of Oklahoma is the Scissor-tailed Flycatcher, which was designated as such on May 26, 1951. This striking bird is easily recognizable due to its distinctive, long, forked tail, which resembles a pair of scissors, giving it a unique silhouette. The Scissor-tailed Flycatcher is primarily found in open areas such as fields and pastures, where it can be seen gracefully soaring and hunting insects. Its plumage is a beautiful mix of pale gray and rosy pink, complementing its bold tail, which measures nearly nine inches long. This bird showcases Oklahoma's natural beauty and symbolizes the state's rich avian diversity.
4. The official state flower of Oklahoma is the Rosa 'Oklahoma,' a stunning perennial shrub that showcases its vibrant blooms throughout the spring, summer, and fall seasons. Known for its resilient nature and beauty, the Rosa 'Oklahoma' features lush, fragrant flowers, making it a beloved choice among gardeners and nature enthusiasts. This beautiful flower was designated as the official state flower in 2004, symbolizing the state's rich natural heritage and commitment to celebrating its floral diversity. The Rosa 'Oklahoma' enhances the local landscape with its striking appearance and supports local ecosystems by attracting pollinators. Its ability to thrive in various conditions makes it a remarkable representation of Oklahoma's unique environment.
5. Oklahoma’s current state flag was officially adopted on April 2, 1925, and it features a distinctive design that reflects the state's history and cultural heritage. The flag has a vibrant blue background, symbolizing loyalty and justice. Prominently displayed in the center is a bison hide shield, which not only represents the American bison, a significant animal in Native American culture and the natural history of the Great Plains, but also serves as a nod to the state’s Indigenous peoples.
Seven delicately hung feathers hang from the bottom of the shield, reminiscent of a dreamcatcher—a spiritual symbol commonly associated with Native American culture, believed to trap negative energies and bring good dreams. The shield itself is adorned with six small red crosses, commemorating the contributions of Christian missionaries and symbolizing their faith.
In addition to the crosses, the design features an olive branch, symbolizing peace, and a traditional Native American peace pipe, which reflects the importance of dialogue and reconciliation among diverse cultures. Beneath the feathers, the word "Oklahoma" is elegantly inscribed in white letters, boldly stating the state's name and enhancing the flag's overall visibility. This thoughtful combination of elements makes Oklahoma's state flag a symbol of pride and a rich tapestry of its diverse history and cultural significance.
6. In Oklahoma, a diverse array of crops thrives due to the state's varied climate and fertile soil. Among the key agricultural products are corn, which is often used for animal feed and biofuels; cotton, a vital cash crop for the region that supports the textile industry; and hay, which serves as essential fodder for livestock. Additionally, oats are cultivated not only for animal consumption but also for human food products.
The state is also known for its production of potatoes and sweet potatoes, both of which play important roles in the local diet and economy. Furthermore, watermelon is grown extensively during the warmer months, celebrated for its juicy sweetness and popularity at summer gatherings. Finally, wheat stands out as a significant crop in Oklahoma, contributing to both the state’s agricultural output and the national food supply. This combination of crops reflects Oklahoma's rich agricultural heritage and its significance in the broader American farming landscape.
7. Oklahoma is home to some amazing destinations worth exploring. One of the highlights is the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge, a stunning natural area that spans over 59,000 acres. Here, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views, hiking trails, and the opportunity to see a diverse array of wildlife, including bison, elk, and various bird species.
Another fantastic spot is the Oklahoma City Zoo, which features a diverse array of animals from around the world. With exhibits that focus on conservation and education, the zoo not only provides entertainment but also inspires a deeper understanding of wildlife and their habitats. Guests can enjoy interactive experiences, view animals up close, and participate in engaging educational programs.
Lastly, the Jasmine Moran Children's Museum is excellent for families. This museum offers hands-on exhibits that encourage creativity and exploration, making learning fun for children of all ages. From interactive displays to imaginative play areas, it provides a fantastic environment for children to learn about science, art, and the world around them while fostering a love for discovery.
8. Oklahoma is home to a diverse range of wildlife that thrives in its various habitats. Among the more notable residents are black bears, which have been known to roam the dense forests and mountainous regions in the eastern part of the state. Bats can be found in numerous species throughout Oklahoma, playing a vital role in pest control and pollination, particularly in areas with abundant vegetation.
The gray fox, with its distinctive bushy tail and agile movements, can often be seen in wooded areas and even in some suburban landscapes. Groundhogs, or woodchucks, inhabit fields and meadows, where they dig extensive burrow systems for shelter and protection from predators.
Mule deer can be spotted gracefully navigating the landscape in the more open terrains and grasslands, particularly in the western regions of the state. The rattlesnake, a well-known inhabitant of Oklahoma's rocky hills and plains, serves as a vital predator in the ecosystem. However, it is often misunderstood due to its potentially venomous bite.
Skunks, with their distinctive black-and-white coloring, can be found in a variety of environments, ranging from forests to urban areas, and are often most active during evening and nighttime hours. Lastly, the white-tailed deer, a common sight across Oklahoma, thrives in both rural and urban settings. They are known for their agility and striking appearance. Together, these animals contribute to the rich biodiversity that characterizes Oklahoma's natural landscape.
9. Oklahoma experiences significant temperature fluctuations, ranging from very hot to very cold, depending on the
time of year. The hottest temperature recorded in Oklahoma was 120 degrees
Fahrenheit in Alva, Oklahoma, on July 18, 1936. The coldest temperature ever recorded
in Oklahoma was -31 degrees (31 degrees below zero) Fahrenheit in Nowata, Oklahoma, on February 10, 2011.
Get your free printable Oklahoma worksheet here:
Books about Oklahoma:
1. What's Great about Oklahoma? by Sheri Dillard
2. O is for Oklahoma by Boys and Girls Club of Oklahoma
3. The Oklahoma Land Run by Una Belle Townsend
4. I Love You as Big as Oklahoma by Rose Rossner
Parents and caregivers, please ensure that the books are suitable for children before reading them to your child or children.
You can Click here to purchase the 50 States workbook on Amazon.
You can also use the 50 States tab at the top of my page to find all the posts about the 50 states in one convenient location.
Join us next week to discover some quick facts about Oregon! Thank you so much for reading my post!
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