7 Facts That Prove Oklahoma Belongs In The South

When you think about the South, images of sprawling plantations, thick Southern drawls, and mouthwatering barbecue likely come to mind. However, there's one state that often stirs debate regarding its regional identity - Oklahoma. Despite being part of the Great Plains geographically, many signs point to the fact that Oklahoma should be considered part of the South culturally, historically, and socially. Here are seven compelling facts that argue convincingly for Oklahoma's Southern credentials:

1. Historical Inclusion in the South

Historically, Oklahoma was part of the Indian Territory, which was considered Southern. When it was integrated into the Union in 1907, many aspects of Southern culture and society came along with it. Here's how:

• Civil War History: Oklahoma Territory saw its share of Civil War skirmishes, with many residents siding with the Confederacy, thereby deepening Southern ties.
• State Song: The state song "Oklahoma!" from the famous musical by Rodgers and Hammerstein, though not explicitly Southern, encapsulates the 'Old West' spirit often associated with Southern states.
• Influence of Southern Migrants: During the Dust Bowl, many from Oklahoma migrated to Southern states like Arkansas and Texas, carrying their culture with them.

<p class="pro-note">🌟 Pro Tip: Look into "The Confederate Cemetery" in Atoka, Oklahoma, for a deeper insight into the state's Southern roots.</p>

2. Culinary Delights

The food in Oklahoma leans heavily towards Southern cuisine:

• Barbecue: Oklahoma-style barbecue, particularly the Kansas City-inspired barbecue in Oklahoma City, is known for its dry-rubbed meats and tangy sauces.
• Okie Fried Pies: These hand-held pies, filled with fruit or savory fillings, are a nod to the Southern tradition of pie-making.
• Gumbo and Jambalaya: Despite not being coastal, some Oklahomans have adopted these Creole and Cajun dishes, linking them culturally to Southern cooking traditions.

Here are some iconic Southern dishes commonly found in Oklahoma:

<p class="pro-note">🥘 Pro Tip: Explore local diners for the best Southern comfort food in Oklahoma!</p>

3. Cultural Practices and Traditions

Oklahoma's cultural landscape shares many similarities with Southern states:

• Hospitality: Oklahomans are known for their warm hospitality, a hallmark of Southern culture.
• Fishing and Hunting: Both are popular recreational activities, aligning with the outdoor lifestyle often celebrated in the South.
• Square Dancing: As part of the National Folk Dance of the United States, square dancing is enjoyed throughout Oklahoma, reflecting a shared cultural pastime.

Practical Example:

During the Oklahoma State Fair, which runs annually, you'll find many Southern traditions, from food to music, on full display.

4. Music Roots

The rich musical heritage of Oklahoma mirrors that of the South:

• Red Dirt Music: A blend of folk, country, and rock that originated in Stillwater, Oklahoma, and shares many characteristics with Southern music.
• Folk and Country Legends: Artists like Woody Guthrie, born in Okemah, Oklahoma, and Hank Williams, who spent significant time in Oklahoma, represent the state's deep roots in Southern music.

Advanced Techniques for Music Enthusiasts:

<p class="pro-note">🎸 Pro Tip: Visit the Woody Guthrie Center in Tulsa to delve into the history of Oklahoma's musical legacy.</p>

5. Sports and Recreation

Sports, particularly football, in Oklahoma echo the fervor found in the South:

• College Football: The University of Oklahoma Sooners have a passionate fanbase comparable to Southern college football fans.
• Tailgating: The tailgating culture at Oklahoma's football games rivals those in Alabama or Texas, with large groups gathering in parking lots for hours before kickoff.

6. Linguistic Connection

Oklahoma English has Southern influences:

• Accents: There are Southern accents, though often mixed with Midwestern twangs.
• Phrases: Terms like "y'all" and other Southern colloquialisms are common in everyday speech.

Common Mistakes to Avoid:

• Assuming Uniformity: Not all parts of Oklahoma have a Southern drawl; there's a mix due to various cultural influences.

7. Climate and Geography

While not entirely Southern, certain aspects of Oklahoma's climate and geography resemble the South:

• Hot Summers: Similar to the South, Oklahoma experiences hot and humid summers, conducive to the same kind of leisurely lifestyle.
• Rivers and Lakes: Like the South, Oklahoma has numerous rivers and lakes, shaping a water-centric recreational culture.

Troubleshooting Tips:

• Cultural vs. Geographical South: Be mindful that cultural South does not always align with geographical boundaries.

To sum up, these seven facts illustrate why Oklahoma holds a legitimate claim to be part of the cultural South. From its historical roots to the modern-day expressions of Southern traditions, Oklahoma showcases a unique blend of cultures that affirm its place among Southern states. Whether it's through its culinary offerings, music, sports, or speech, Oklahoma proudly reflects Southern charm. Now, we encourage you to delve further into the fascinating world of Southern culture and explore more about how Oklahoma fits in this diverse region.

<p class="pro-note">💡 Pro Tip: To truly understand Oklahoma's Southern connection, a visit to the Oklahoma History Center in Oklahoma City will enrich your knowledge.</p>

<div class="faq-section"> <div class="faq-container"> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>Is Oklahoma considered part of the Southeastern Conference?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>No, Oklahoma is not part of the Southeastern Conference (SEC). However, its University of Oklahoma Sooners are members of the Big 12 Conference, which does have some historical connections with the SEC.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>What is Red Dirt music, and how does it relate to Southern music?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Red Dirt music is a unique genre born in Oklahoma, influenced by folk, country, and rock. It shares similarities with Southern music in its storytelling, themes, and instrumentation.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>Can you find Southern cuisine in Oklahoma?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Absolutely! From barbecue joints to Southern-style breakfast spots, Oklahoma has a vibrant food scene that embraces Southern flavors and traditions.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>How does Oklahoma's climate compare to Southern states?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>While it varies, Oklahoma's climate, especially in the southern parts, has hot summers and mild winters, similar to states like Louisiana and Mississippi.</p> </div> </div> </div> </div>