1. Statehood Day: August 15 marks the anniversary of Oklahoma's statehood. In 1907, Oklahoma became the 46th state in the union.

2. The Tinker Air Force Base: In 1942, construction began on Tinker Air Force Base near Oklahoma City. The base was named after Major General Clarence L. Tinker, an Oklahoma native who was killed in action during World War II. Today, Tinker AFB is one of the largest employers in the state.

3. The Tulsa Race Riot: August 15, 1921, was the first day of a three-day race riot in Tulsa, Oklahoma. The Greenwood District, also known as "Black Wall Street," was destroyed and hundreds of African Americans were killed. The incident remains one of the deadliest episodes of racial violence in American history.

4. Will Rogers' Birthday: August 15 is also the birthday of Oklahoma's favorite son, Will Rogers. Rogers was a humorist and actor who became famous for his folksy style and commentary on American politics and culture. He died in a plane crash in Alaska in 1935.

5. Oklahoma City Bombing Memorial: On August 15, 1995, the Oklahoma City Community Foundation announced plans to create a memorial for the victims of the Oklahoma City Bombing. Construction began in 2000, and the memorial was dedicated on April 19, 2001, the sixth anniversary of the bombing. The site includes a reflecting pool and 168 empty chairs, one for each person who died in the attack.