Oklahoma’s name comes from two Choctaw words: "okla" meaning people, and "humma" meaning red. Together, Oklahoma means "red people," which refers to the Native Americans who originally lived in this area. Located in the heartland of the United States, Oklahoma is close to the center of the country, making it an important crossroads for trade, culture, and history. The state is known for its prairies, mountains, and rich Native American heritage.

Oklahoma is home to 39 federally recognized Native American tribes, the most of any state besides California. These tribes have a long history in the area, and many were moved to Oklahoma during the 1800s as part of the Indian Removal Act. In Oklahoma City, the First Americans Museum was recently built to celebrate and preserve the cultures, stories, and history of Native Americans. It is a place where people can learn about the diverse tribal nations and their contributions to the state and the nation.

The Native American tribes in Oklahoma have a unique relationship with both the federal and state governments. As sovereign nations, these tribes have the right to govern themselves, create their own laws, and manage their land. However, they still must work with the U.S. government and the state of Oklahoma on certain issues, such as law enforcement, taxation, and resource management. This balance of sovereignty allows the tribes to maintain their cultural identity while interacting with state and federal systems.

The largest tribe in Oklahoma, by population, is the Cherokee Nation. According to recent census data, the Cherokee Nation has more than 400,000 enrolled members, with over 141,000 of them living in Oklahoma. This makes the Cherokee Nation not only the largest tribe in the state but also one of the largest Native American tribes in the United States. The other 38 tribes in Oklahoma also have significant populations. Altogether, the Native American population in Oklahoma is about 523,000, representing a strong and vibrant community within the state. Each tribe contributes to the rich cultural and historical fabric of Oklahoma, maintaining their traditions while also playing an active role in the state's economy and governance.

Oklahoma's Native American tribes have a rich Christian history that dates back to the 19th century, when missionaries began working among the tribes. Many tribes embraced Christianity, and today, churches and Christian ministries are active within nearly every tribe, with many Native Americans identifying as Christian. Gospel hymns are often sung in tribal languages, and Bible translation efforts have been made in several Native languages to help preserve both the Christian faith and the native tongues. This strong Christian influence reflects the deep spiritual heritage of Oklahoma’s Native communities, where Christianity plays an important role in tribal life.