Which group of people inhabited Oklahoma approximately 12,000 years ago?

The group of people that inhabited Oklahoma approximately 12,000 years ago were the Clovis. This ancient culture is known for its distinct stone tools, particularly the fluted projectile points that were used for hunting large game during the late Pleistocene era. Archaeological evidence indicates that the Clovis people were among the earliest inhabitants of North America and were reliant on big-game hunting, notably mammoths and mastodons, as well as gathering wild plants.

The significance of the Clovis culture in Oklahoma’s prehistory lies in their contributions to understanding early human migration and adaptation in the Americas. The presence of Clovis points and other artifacts in various sites across Oklahoma reinforces their historical importance and provides insight into the lifestyle and environment of people living in North America during that time.