The Rise and Fall of Black Wall Street

In the early 20th century, the Greenwood District of Tulsa, Oklahoma became known as "Black Wall Street" - one of the most prosperous African American communities in the United States. Founded in 1906, Greenwood flourished with Black-owned businesses, including banks, hotels, grocery stores, movie theaters, and much more. The community had its own schools, hospital, library, and even a bus system.\n\nBy 1921, Greenwood had become a thriving hub of Black enterprise and self-sufficiency. The district spanned 35 blocks and was home to over 10,000 Black residents. Prominent businessmen like O.W. Gurley, J.B. Stradford, and A.J. Smitherman built empires that served as beacons of what was possible when African Americans had the opportunity to build wealth within their own communities.\n\nTragically, on May 31-June 1, 1921, a white mob attacked Greenwood, burning over 1,256 homes and destroying 191 businesses. An estimated 300 Black residents were killed. The Tulsa Race Massacre remains one of the worst acts of racial violence in American history. Despite this devastating blow, the community rebuilt, and today the legacy of Black Wall Street continues to inspire new generations of Black entrepreneurs worldwide.