Conclusion

The Oklahoma City bombing was devastating. In its aftermath, Oklahomans found ways to move forward. They learned from what happened and used their experiences to reach out to others who suffered tragedy. The Oklahoma Standard continues to be a source of strength, pride, and hope for many Oklahomans in difficult times. The bombing also gave an added sense of meaning to revitalization efforts in downtown Oklahoma City. By the early twenty-first century, Oklahoma City was becoming a thriving urban center. At the same time, Indigenous nations expanded businesses, health care facilities, and tribal government. They benefited financially from the legalization of casinos on Indigenous land. In the early twenty-first century Oklahoma’s population continued to grow more diverse. The economy also diversified even though reliance on oil persisted.

As the first two decades of the twenty-first century unfolded, Oklahomans grappled with a range of new concerns even as they embraced new opportunities for growth. The final chapter explores the challenges modern-day Oklahomans continue to confront. It also examines Oklahoma’s place in a rapidly changing world. In this last chapter, we will see the growth of Indigenous power and economic influence. We will see Oklahomans confronting difficult issues like incarceration, reproductive rights, and the COVID-19 pandemic. And what we hope is that you will also see your story, your place in Oklahoma, and your connection to the ongoing process of making, creating, and shaping Oklahoma.