The Land Run of 1889 was a significant event in American history where thousands of settlers raced to claim land in what is now known as Oklahoma. On April 22, 1889, the U.S. government opened up a portion of the former Unassigned Lands for settlement. Participants, often referred to as "boomers," lined up at the borders and, at noon, rushed to stake their claims on parcels of land. This event marked the beginning of a major westward expansion and the establishment of new towns. The Land Run led to the rapid development of communities like Guthrie, which became the first capital of the Oklahoma Territory. The event symbolized the spirit of opportunity and the pursuit of land ownership in the United States.