Which major event led to a population increase in Oklahoma during the late 19th century?

The Oklahoma Land Rush was a pivotal event that significantly contributed to a population surge in the region during the late 19th century. Taking place primarily on April 22, 1889, the Land Rush offered land to settlers in what was previously designated as Indian Territory. This event symbolized the opportunity for individuals and families to claim land and establish homesteads, which attracted a diverse group of people, including farmers, ranchers, and opportunists eager to build new lives.

The rush not only accelerated the settlement of Oklahoma but also transformed its landscape and demographics, as thousands of individuals lined up to stake their claims. Many of these settlers were drawn by the promise of fertile land and the chance to cultivate crops, fostering economic growth in the area. The influx of residents led to the establishment of towns and communities, thereby shaping the future of Oklahoma.

In contrast, other events listed did not have a direct role in the late 19th-century population increase. The Great Depression occurred much later, in the 1930s, and resulted in economic hardship rather than growth. The Civil War, which took place from 1861 to 1865, also preceded the significant settlement of Oklahoma, primarily impacting the southern states and their population dynamics. The