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Oklahoma

Oklahoma is a state in the south-central United States.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Oklahoma is a state in the south-central United States. It became the 46th state on November 16, 1907, and its capital and largest city is Oklahoma City. The state is bordered by six U.S. states and is known for its Native American history, Great Plains geography, and energy production.

History

The region that became Oklahoma was part of the Louisiana Purchase and later included Indian Territory and Oklahoma Territory. The two territories were combined and admitted as a state in 1907.

Geography

Oklahoma lies in the South Central United States and is bordered by six states. It includes parts of the Great Plains and is commonly associated with tornado-prone weather and varied geographic regions.

Population and government

Oklahoma’s population was 3,959,353 in the 2020 census, making it the 28th most populous U.S. state. Oklahoma City serves as the state capital and largest city.

Economy

The state is known for energy production, especially petroleum, crude oil, and natural gas. Agriculture is also important to Oklahoma’s economy and land use.

Key facts

  • Oklahoma is located in the south-central United States.
  • It borders Colorado, Kansas, Missouri, Arkansas, Texas, and New Mexico.
  • The state was created from former Indian Territory and Oklahoma Territory and joined the Union in 1907.
  • Oklahoma City is both the capital and the largest city.
  • The state is a major producer of petroleum, crude oil, and natural gas.

Frequently asked questions

When did Oklahoma become a state?
Oklahoma became the 46th U.S. state on November 16, 1907.
What is Oklahoma’s capital?
Oklahoma City is the capital and largest city of Oklahoma.
How many counties are in Oklahoma?
Oklahoma has 77 counties.
What does the name Oklahoma mean?
The name comes from Choctaw words commonly explained as meaning “red people.”
What is Oklahoma known for economically?
Oklahoma is known for oil and natural gas production and also has a significant agricultural sector.

References

  1. National Geographic Kids — https://kids.nationalgeographic.com/geography/states/article/oklahoma
    Supports: State borders, name origin, statehood year, geography, and energy production.
  2. The Fact File — https://thefactfile.org/oklahoma-facts/
    Supports: Statehood date, capital, nickname, counties, and name origin.
  3. Encyclopaedia Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/place/Oklahoma-state
    Supports: Area, population, and capital.
  4. U.S. News & World Report — https://www.usnews.com/news/best-states/articles/2019-09-20/10-things-to-know-about-oklahoma
    Supports: Historical background, tornado activity, agriculture, and energy-related facts.
  5. Fact Monster — https://www.factmonster.com/us/states/oklahoma
    Supports: Historical overview, territorial formation, and oil/natural gas context.