Oklahoma's history began with the arrival of Native American tribes, including the Cherokee, Creek, and Osage, who inhabited the region long before European settlers. In the 19th century, the U.S. government forced many tribes onto reservations through policies like the Trail of Tears, leading to significant cultural changes and displacement. In 1889, the land rush opened up vast areas for settlement, leading to the establishment of towns like Guthrie and Oklahoma City. Oklahoma became the 46th state in 1907, and its history includes events like the Dust Bowl of the 1930s and the Tulsa Race Massacre in 1921, which shaped its social and economic landscape.