Flag History
The state name comes from a Native American word meaning "red people" and in Oklahoma today there are more than 60 different groups of Native Americans. So, it is fitting that Native American symbolism is featured on the flag. The blue field is taken from a flag carried by Choctaw soldiers during the Civil War. The shield in the center, of buffalo hide decorated with eagle feathers, is the battle shield of an Osage warrior. The crosses on it are the Native American signs for stars. A peace pipe and olive branch lie across the shield, representing peace of both Native and non-Native Americans to show that all people want peace. The flag was designed by Mrs. Louise Flake.
Flag Adopted: 1925
State Nickname: The Sooner State
State Motto: Work conquers all
Area: 69,919 square miles
Approximate Population: 3.1 million
Capital: Oklahoma City
Largest City: Oklahoma City
Major Products: oil, gas, wheat, timber
State Bird: Scissor-tailed Flycatcher
State Tree: Redbud