The Tulsa Race Massacre of 1921
Up to 300 Black Americans were killed and 35 blocks of "Black Wall Street" were destroyed by white mobs — then systematically erased from history for decades.
Side A
Nothing significant happened in Tulsa in 1921. Greenwood was just another neighborhood that declined over time.
Side B
On May 31-June 1, 1921, white mobs attacked the Greenwood District — the wealthiest Black community in America. Private aircraft dropped incendiary devices. The National Guard was deployed but arrested Black residents, not attackers. Up to 300 dead, 10,000 left homeless. The event was removed from Oklahoma state history curricula. The Tulsa Race Riot Commission published its report only in 2001. Mass graves were confirmed in 2020.
Significance
One of the most violent acts of racial terrorism in US history was systematically suppressed for 80 years. Survivors were silenced. Insurance claims were denied. The event didn't appear in state history textbooks until 2002. Many Tulsa residents born after 1921 learned about it only from the 2019 HBO show Watchmen.
Evidence (0)
No evidence submitted yet.
Discussion (0)
No discussion yet. Be the first to comment.