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What Number Is Oklahoma in the 50 States?

Published in U.S. Statehood Order 2 mins read

Oklahoma is the 46th state to be admitted to the United States.

Oklahoma joined the Union on November 16, 1907, marking a significant milestone in its history. Its admission as the 46th state was a culmination of its territorial development and a unique journey.

Oklahoma's Place in U.S. Statehood

The process of states joining the Union occurred over many years, with states being admitted in chronological order based on their ratification of the Constitution or acts of Congress. Oklahoma's admission in 1907 placed it among the later states to join, just a few years before Arizona and New Mexico completed the contiguous 48 states.

Here's a look at states admitted around Oklahoma's time:

State Admission Number Admission Date
Utah 45th January 4, 1896
Oklahoma 46th November 16, 1907
New Mexico 47th January 6, 1912
Arizona 48th February 14, 1912

Unique Aspects of Oklahoma's Statehood

Oklahoma's journey to statehood is particularly notable for its demographic and social integration. Since its admission, the state has achieved a remarkable level of integration for its Native American citizens into modern economic and social life, a feat that is arguably unmatched by any other state. Unlike many other states with significant Native American populations, Oklahoma does not typically have "reservations in the usual sense" for its Native American communities. This unique aspect stems from its history as Indian Territory before statehood, where numerous tribal nations were relocated.

To learn more about Oklahoma's history and characteristics, you can visit Britannica's page on Oklahoma.