The formation of Oklahoma as the 46th state in the United States was a significant milestone in American expansion and the intricate history of Native American sovereignty. Indian Territory and Oklahoma Territory initially operated as separate entities, with the Indian Territory being designated for Native American tribes forcibly relocated from their ancestral lands in the southeastern United States. Over time, settlers and homesteaders flocked to the region, leading to questions about governance and land use. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, as the population grew, there was increasing demand for statehood amid rising tensions over land rights and tribal sovereignty.

Statehood for Oklahoma was pursued vigorously, culminating in a push for both territories to unite. This culmination came after a series of territorial legislatures, public meetings, and the promotion of statehood through various organizations. In 1907, the Oklahoma Constitution was adopted, allowing for territorial elections that brought the state into the Union. The transition was marked by diverse interests, including those of the settlers, Native Americans, and land speculators, each having distinct visions for the future of the new state. The unification created a new socio-political environment focused on progress and development.

As Oklahoma joined the Union, it represented a melding of cultures, ideas, and interests, further solidifying the westward expansion narrative that was central to American identity. With statehood, Oklahoma was positioned to partake fully in national politics and economic opportunities, influencing everything from agriculture to energy sectors in the years to follow. This event also highlighted the ongoing complexities of Native American rights and the eventual integration of tribal lands into U.S. governance.