1. Oklahoma's First Governor Was Elected: On November 15, 1907, Oklahoma held its first statewide election, and Democrat Charles N. Haskell was elected as the state's first governor. Haskell had been a prominent lawyer, businessman, and political activist prior to his election, and he would go on to serve as governor until 1911.
2. The First Movie Theater Opened in Oklahoma: On November 15, 1905, the first movie theater in Oklahoma opened its doors in Oklahoma City. The theater was called the Dewey and was located on the corner of First and Broadway. It featured vaudeville acts and silent films and was a popular destination for entertainment in the early 20th century.
3. The Tulsa Race Riot Began: On May 31, 1921, a young black man named Dick Rowland was accused of assaulting a white elevator operator in Tulsa, Oklahoma. The incident sparked a wave of violence and destruction known as the Tulsa Race Riot. By the time the riot was over, hundreds of people had been killed, and the once-thriving Greenwood District, also known as "Black Wall Street," had been destroyed.
4. The First Native American Film Festival Was Held: On November 15, 1975, the first Native American Film Festival was held in Norman, Oklahoma. The festival was the brainchild of writer and filmmaker Randy Redroad and was organized to showcase the work of Native American filmmakers and artists. Today, the festival is known as the Red Earth Film Festival and is held annually in Oklahoma City.
5. Oklahoma City's First Professional Football Team Was Established: On November 15, 1960, the Oklahoma City Plainsmen were established as the city's first professional football team. The Plainsmen played in the Continental Football League and had a successful inaugural season, finishing with a record of 11 wins and 3 losses. The team played at Taft Stadium in Oklahoma City and was a popular attraction for local sports fans.
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