Greenwood District (“Black Wall Street”)
One of the wealthiest Black communities in the United States in the early 20th century. Destroyed over the course of May 31 and June 1, 1921, by a white mob acting in concert with city officials and the Oklahoma National Guard. As many as 300 Black residents were murdered. Approximately 35 city blocks — more than 1,200 homes, businesses, schools, hospitals, and churches — were burned to the ground. Eyewitnesses and federal investigators have documented that explosives were dropped from private aircraft. No one was ever prosecuted. The state of Oklahoma did not commission an official investigation until 1997.
A full editorial profile of Greenwood District (“Black Wall Street”) — including primary sources, archival photographs, and a visitor guide — is in development. Subscribe to be notified when it publishes. To suggest sources or corrections, write us at editors@black-history.com.