Oklahoma is frequently burdened with a number of stale preconceptions that don’t accurately reflect the state’s variety, vibrancy, or reality, such as constant tornadoes and everyone riding horses.
Ten of the most prevalent (and untrue) preconceptions about Oklahoma are listed below, along with the facts that dispel them:
Everyone wears cowboy boots and drives a pickup truck.
Cowboy boots are more of an exception than the rule, especially outside of rodeos and special events, and most Oklahomans drive a variety of cars, despite pop culture’s fixation with the Western image.
Everybody resides on a ranch or farm.
Oklahoma is a very urbanized state today; in terms of both size and population, Oklahoma City is among the biggest cities in the nation. Instead of living on expansive rural terrain, the majority of residents lives in cities or suburbs.
There are always tornadoes.
Although severe weather is common in Oklahoma, which is located in Tornado Alley, the idea that tornadoes occur there every day is untrue. Many Oklahomans don’t see one for years.
Oklahoma is Basically Dusty, Flat Dirt
From lakes and rolling forests to mountains like the Wichita and Ouachitas, the terrain is surprisingly diverse. With the most artificial lakes in the country, Oklahoma has lots of opportunities for picturesque enjoyment.
It’s All About Football in College
Even though OU and OSU football fandoms are well-known, not everyone is a sports enthusiast; many Oklahomans are either not interested in sports at all or like local baseball, soccer, or the NBA’s Oklahoma City Thunder.
Everyone has a horse.
The majority of Oklahomans do not own horses, with the exception of ranchers and equestrian enthusiasts. Owning a car, bike, or boat is far more frequent in cities and towns than owning a horse.
Teepees are where Oklahomans reside.
The rich and contemporary reality of both metropolitan Oklahomans and Native American communities are overlooked by this persistent misconception. There are no residential teepees; most people live in homes or apartments.
Stuck in the Past or the “Wild West”
It is no longer accurate to say that Oklahoma is archaic, archaic, or “stuck in the stone ages.” Modern cities, a flourishing digital sector, creative legislation, and a thriving culinary and artistic culture are all features of the state.
Everyone just eats barbecue or fried food.
Even while there are some delectable fried favorites, Oklahoma’s culinary landscape is far more varied, with modern cafes, ethnic cuisine, and health food available everywhere.
Insults that are “Okie,” “out of shape,” or “uneducated”
It is unfair and false to stereotype Okies as being illiterate, lazy, or unhealthy. Artists, scientists, businesspeople, and well-known personalities in music, sports, and other fields call Oklahoma home.
The people of Oklahoma are amiable, varied, and progressive. For a more complete understanding of Oklahoma and its people, the outdated clichés must be abandoned, even though they might make you laugh.
