20
QuizLong Text

New Settlers in the Oklahoma Territory

Question 20 • OK-Oklahoma History

What were the hopes of African American settlement in the Oklahoma Territory? In contrast, what were the realities that African American’s settling in Oklahoma Territory faced?

Answer

Answer:

Responses may vary but should include some or all of the following information: African Americans settling in the Oklahoma Territory were hoping to create a black state where African Americans had a voting majority. They were also hoping Oklahoma Territory would be a place to escape discrimination and generate great opportunities for themselves. In reality, settling in Oklahoma was not as ideal as it was portrayed by newspapers and migration companies. African Americans faced economic difficulties due to the poor quality of the land. There were also racial hostilities in Oklahoma Territory, caused by white fears and resentment toward Buffalo Soldiers. Eventually, segregation made its way into the state as well with the passing of Plessy v. Ferguson.