How was it for blacks to live in Oklahoma in the 1880s?

Answer 1

Lynching was a common occurrence in Oklahoma in the 1880s, although statistically, there were more whites lynched than blacks. Between 1885 to 1930, there were 77 whites and 50 blacks lynched. However, you have to keep in mind that these were the ones that were officially recorded. It is believed that there were probably many more for both races.

Entering into the 1880s, between the whites and Native Americans, there were about 11,000 blacks owned as slaves.

By post Civil War, in the mid 1880s, blacks were starting to make land claims. African-American towns and settlements started to develop. Arkansas Colored Town, Bookertee, and Marshall Town were examples of these. There were clashes with the Native Americans and some cattlemen, much like what was occurring in white areas. However, blacks had some success in establishing their own towns. Some of the towns that came up during this era still stand today, such as Vernon.

Answer 2

Living in Oklahoma as a black person in the 1880s was challenging due to segregation, discrimination, and threats of violence. Many faced limited opportunities for social and economic advancement, along with the constant fear of racial violence and injustice. Despite these challenges, the black community in Oklahoma persevered and built strong networks and institutions to support one another.