Tulsa

In 1901, significant oil reserves were discovered in the Red Fork Field, within what was then the Indian Territory and would become part of modern Tulsa, Oklahoma. This pivotal discovery marked the beginning of the first oil boom in Tulsa, transforming it from a small town into one of the leading oil production centers in the United States, earning it the nickname 'Oil Capital of the World'. The rapid economic growth attracted a variety of workers and new residents, laying the ground for Tulsa's prominent place in the oil industry and its rapid urbanization.

On November 16, 1905, the region that is now Oklahoma, including Tulsa, was officially admitted to the United States as the 46th state. After a prolonged period of debate and attempts to establish a distinct Indian state called Sequoyah, statehood reflected a culmination of the interplay between indigenous territories and the influx of non-indigenous settlers seeking land and opportunity. The oil boom that soon followed in the Tulsa area marked the beginning of a rapid economic transformation during this time.

The Tulsa Race Massacre of May 31 and June 1, 1921, is one of the most devastating racial violence incidents in U.S. history. Located in the prosperous African American neighborhood of Greenwood in Tulsa, Oklahoma, violence erupted when a white mob attacked residents, homes, and businesses. The two-day destruction resulted in the deaths of hundreds, with more than 1,000 homes and businesses destroyed, leaving the black community deeply scarred for generations. This tragic event highlighted racial tensions and systemic injustice issues that have been examined and addressed only recently in greater detail.

On June 15, 1935, the Philcade Building in downtown Tulsa, Oklahoma was completed. This Art Deco skyscraper is a representation of the prosperity brought on by the oil boom in the region. Commissioned by Waite Phillips, the building became an integral part of Tulsa's architectural heritage, showcasing the opulence and optimism of the era. The Philcade Building is located in the heart of Tulsa and continues to be an iconic landmark that captures the spirit of the early 20th-century economic surge in the oil sector.

On July 1, 1948, Tulsa International Airport was officially inaugurated, marking a significant development in the city's infrastructure and connectivity. Originally known as Tulsa Municipal Airport, its expansion to an international airport facilitated increased air travel and transportation of goods, thereby contributing to Tulsa's economic growth. This transformation aligned Tulsa with the aviation industry's expansion in the post-war era and highlighted its strategic role in national and international air networks, fostering commercial and passenger air traffic in the region.

Oral Roberts University, a private evangelical university, was founded in Tulsa, Oklahoma in September 1966, established by the evangelist Oral Roberts. The university aims to blend spiritual growth with academic excellence, intending to educate students in a holistic manner. Its establishment adds a notable educational institution to the region and contributes significantly to Tulsa's educational landscape by offering various programs that draw students nationally and internationally, further enriching the diversity and academic environment of the city.

The Tulsa Performing Arts Center (PAC) officially opened on November 25, 1977, reshaping the cultural landscape of Tulsa, Oklahoma. Designed by architect Minoru Yamasaki, the PAC hosts multiple performance halls and has become a hub for performing arts, including theater, ballet, and opera. The center reflects Tulsa's commitment to fostering a vibrant arts community and serves to enrich the cultural life of Oklahomans as well as drawing visitors from around the region. The PAC stands as a testament to the city's dedication to supporting the arts.

In 1986, the city of Tulsa, Oklahoma celebrated its Centennial with the burial of a time capsule known as the 'Tulsa Time Capsule'. This event was marked by significant civic celebrations and reflections on the city's growth and development. The capsule itself contains a variety of objects representative of the era, including items specific to Tulsa's culture and economy, intended for retrieval in 2001 during the bicentennial celebrations, although the actual opening was delayed until later. This tradition embodies the community's pursuit of understanding their own pasts and futures.

The Tulsa Air and Space Museum (TASM) opened its doors on November 1, 1998, providing a venue dedicated to showcasing the rich aerospace history of Tulsa, Oklahoma. Featuring exhibits on Tulsa's contributions to aviation and space exploration, TASM offers interactive experiences and educational programs for visitors of all ages. The museum plays a vital role in preserving the stories of Oklahoma's men and women in aerospace while also inspiring future generations to explore the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).

The Woody Guthrie Center, dedicated to the life and legacy of iconic American folk musician Woody Guthrie, opened in Tulsa, Oklahoma on October 22, 2005. This center houses an extensive collection of Guthrie's writings, art, and memorabilia, celebrating his contribution to music and social activism. Located in the Brady Arts District, it serves as an educational resource and a place of inspiration for visitors from around the world, promoting Guthrie's message of diversity, equality, and storytelling through folk music.