The State Flag of Oklahoma

A look into the history and symbolism of the state flag of Oklahoma reveals not only the cultural heritage of the United States, but a representation of the many Native Americans that have shaped America with their contributions to the U.S.

The original Oklahoma flag

The current state flag of Oklahoma is completely different from the original flag that was used by the state. The first flag was adopted in 1911. Its design was very simple; it featured simple red, white and blue colors. The flag carried only one white star set directly in the middle of a field of red. The star had a strong blue outline along with the number "46" emblazoned in the center. The number indicates that Oklahoma was the 46th state of the Union.

The history of the flag

While there was nothing overtly wrong with the original flag, it was taken out of service in 1925. The problem was that in 1917, the Russian Revolution brought the Communist party into power in Russia. The single star along with a large field of red were seen as icons of communism. In 1924, a competition was held for a new flag design. The winning flag was submitted by Mrs. George Fluke, Jr.

The new flag

The Oklahoma state flag that flies today has a blue background, similar to the flag carried by Choctaw soldiers in the Civil War. It features the traditional buffalo hide warrior's shield of the Osage tribe. Atop the shield is a crossed olive branch and peace pipe, both representing peace.

Oklahoma chose to give thanks to those who suffered in the building of the United States with its state flag. It gave honor to a people that are still brother Americans, even if sometimes forgotten and overlooked.