Oklahoma Timeline

Every state has a rich history that defines how it is known today. Using a timeline layout, students will research the history of Oklahoma and create a timeline of events. Students must think about what makes an event truly worthy of being included in the timeline and be able to include detail in their timeline.

For an alternative to the timeline layout, have students create a timeline poster to incorporate into a presentation or gallery walk. You can add more than one template to this assignment to give students lots of options and adjust the instructions accordingly.

Examples of Important Events in Oklahoma History

1682: French explorers, led by Robert de La Salle, claim the region for France, calling it part of "Louisiana."

1803: The United States acquires the land that includes Oklahoma through the Louisiana Purchase.

1830s: The U.S. government forcibly relocates many Native American tribes to Indian Territory (modern-day Oklahoma) in events known as the Trail of Tears. In 1834, Indian Territory is officially established by the US government.

1889: The Land Run of 1889 takes place on April 22, opening up unassigned lands to settlers. Thousands rush to claim land, leading to the term "Sooners" for those who entered early.

1907: Oklahoma becomes the 46th state of the United States on November 16.