# Tulsa Race Massacre ❉ Term

**Published:** 2025-06-09
**Author:** Roothea
**Categories:** Term

---

_
![The image explores beauty and identity, with the woman](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/striking-black-and-white-portrait-of-a-woman-with-intricate-locs.jpg)

## Fundamentals

The [Tulsa Race Massacre](/area/tulsa-race-massacre/) stands as a harrowing chapter in American history, a stark delineation of racial animosity and economic devastation. At its most straightforward, this event refers to the systematic destruction of a thriving Black community in Tulsa, Oklahoma, known as Greenwood, by a white mob over two days, from May 31 to June 1, 1921. It unfolded from a false accusation against a young Black man, spiraling into an outburst of violence that razed homes, businesses, and lives. Understanding this period is not a simple recounting of facts; it is a journey into the profound historical implications of racial injustice and the deep-seated resilience of Black communities in America. 

The meaning of the Tulsa Race Massacre extends beyond mere historical chronology. It signifies a premeditated attack on Black prosperity and self-determination, a deliberate attempt to dismantle what had become a beacon of Black entrepreneurial success and cultural autonomy. Greenwood, affectionately termed “Black Wall Street,” represented a powerful counter-narrative to the prevailing segregation and oppression of the era.

Within its borders, Black residents created a self-sufficient economy, recirculating dollars within their community and building institutions that served their unique needs and aspirations. This collective endeavor allowed for a degree of freedom and economic agency rarely seen elsewhere for African Americans during the Jim Crow South.

Consider the daily lives within Greenwood, where every aspect of existence, from commerce to social gatherings, was imbued with communal spirit. Shops, schools, hospitals, and churches provided a comprehensive ecosystem for its residents. Here, barbershops hummed with conversation and hair salons, often presided over by pioneering Black women, offered not only skilled [hair care](/area/hair-care/) but also safe spaces for dialogue and solidarity. These establishments were foundational to the community’s spirit and economic vitality, providing services specifically tailored to [textured hair](/area/textured-hair/) that mainstream society often overlooked or devalued. 

> The Tulsa Race Massacre represents a violent attempt to erase a thriving Black community’s economic power and cultural self-reliance, particularly evident in its vibrant hair and beauty industry.
The core definition of the Tulsa Race Massacre is thus an exploration of a devastating historical event that stripped away Black wealth, property, and, for many, life itself, but also reveals an enduring spirit of recovery and the ongoing pursuit of justice. Its significance resonates through generations, shaping contemporary conversations about systemic inequality, reparations, and the power of memory in constructing identity. The devastation in 1921 did not simply burn buildings; it aimed to extinguish a way of life that celebrated Black agency, beauty, and communal strength. 

![A black and white image resonates deeply through showcasing the passing down of cultural knowledge via hands intertwining kinky hair. This familial moment celebrates heritage, highlights the intricate artistry of black hairstyling traditions, and emphasizes commitment to natural hair care within an intergenerational black family dynamic, enhancing porosity](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/generational-hands-braiding-black-textured-hair-ancestral-tradition-and.jpg)

## Origins and Prosperity of Greenwood

Greenwood’s emergence was a direct response to the harsh realities of segregation, a space where Black individuals could build their own systems of support and commerce. The term “Black Wall Street” spoke to the impressive accumulation of wealth and businesses within this district, driven by ingenuity and mutual aid. Black families arriving in Tulsa sought opportunities for a better life, finding community and economic footing in Greenwood. The self-sustaining nature of the community meant that dollars exchanged within its boundaries often recirculated for extended periods, strengthening local enterprises and creating a robust internal economy. 

The vibrant economic landscape included a diverse array of businesses, from legal and medical offices to entertainment venues. Among these, the beauty and grooming sectors were particularly prominent. Barbershops were central to men’s social lives, offering not just shaves and haircuts but also forums for political discourse and community news.

For women, [beauty salons](/area/beauty-salons/) provided essential services for textured hair, creating spaces where care was offered by those who understood its unique needs and ancestral significance. These establishments were pillars of the community, fostering both personal well-being and collective economic growth.

- **Community Building** ❉ Segregation inadvertently fostered a dense network of Black-owned businesses.

- **Economic Independence** ❉ Dollars recirculated, building internal wealth and agency.

- **Cultural Expression** ❉ Hair care practices and beauty rituals affirmed identity and pride.
The wealth accumulated in Greenwood was not merely monetary; it was a wealth of self-respect, cultural affirmation, and community solidarity. The act of caring for one’s hair within these Black-owned establishments was more than a cosmetic ritual. It was an affirmation of identity, a connection to ancestral practices, and a quiet act of defiance against a society that often sought to diminish Black beauty. The shared experience of preparing for a Sunday service or a social gathering, with hair meticulously cared for and adorned, deepened communal bonds and reinforced a collective sense of worth. 

![This striking monochrome portrait celebrates the beauty and versatility of textured hair, particularly the intricate styling of dreadlocks, set against the striking contrast of light and shadow, inviting a deeper appreciation for modern Black hair artistry and cultural pride.](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/monochrome-portrait-of-black-woman-with-styled-dreadlocks-and-mesh-top.jpg)

## The Unfolding Tragedy

The events of May 31, 1921, began with an accusation and rapidly escalated into uncontrollable racial violence. A white mob descended upon Greenwood, supported by authorities who did little to intervene and, in some cases, participated. Homes were systematically looted and then burned, businesses were destroyed, and lives were taken with chilling impunity.

The destruction was comprehensive, leaving the once-bustling district in smoldering ruins. The scale of the violence and property destruction aimed to decimate every aspect of Greenwood’s thriving existence.

The immediate aftermath was one of utter devastation. Thousands of residents were left homeless, their businesses reduced to ash, and their savings obliterated. The systemic denial of insurance claims further compounded the financial ruin, ensuring that the economic wounds would fester for generations.

The psychological toll was immeasurable, leaving survivors with enduring trauma and a profound sense of injustice. The historical memory of the massacre was suppressed for decades, a silence that contributed to the ongoing struggle for acknowledgment and repair.

![Camellia seed oil, a legacy for textured hair wellness, embodies ancestral care and moisture. Its monochrome elegance connects historical beauty rituals to today](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/camellia-seed-oil-black-and-white-still-life-textured-hair.jpg)

![The monochrome street-style scene with her Tapered Afro symbolizes the modern intersection of textured hair and professionalism. Precise grooming elevates heritage with contemporary style, reflecting confidence and purpose as she navigates the urban landscape](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/elegant-woman-with-natural-textured-hair-and-blazer-crosswalk-street-style.jpg)

## Intermediate

The Tulsa Race Massacre, when viewed through a more discerning lens, reveals its multilayered significance as a profound assault on Black economic autonomy, cultural expression, and the very concept of collective heritage. It is a historical wound that speaks to the vulnerability of self-made success in the face of systemic racism, particularly how such attacks impact the intimate spaces of Black life, including those dedicated to [textured hair care](/area/textured-hair-care/) and community building. The event’s enduring impact is not merely about physical destruction; it represents a shattering of generational progress and a deep severance of community bonds, threads that included the vital roles of [Black beauty](/area/black-beauty/) professionals. 

Before the devastation, Greenwood was a testament to Black entrepreneurial spirit, a place where professional, retail, and entertainment services flourished, all serving a predominantly Black clientele. This self-contained economy meant that money circulated within the district for significant periods, contributing to its remarkable affluence. Within this vibrant landscape, [hair salons](/area/hair-salons/) and barbershops were not simply places of commerce; they were cultural anchors, spaces of intimate care, and centers for social and political discourse. These establishments provided not only vital services for textured hair but also fostered self-esteem and cultural pride, often absent in the broader white-dominated society. 

The destruction of Greenwood included the wholesale elimination of these essential businesses. Reports indicate that among the 1,256 homes and numerous institutions destroyed were barber and beauty shops, alongside four hotels, eight churches, and various other community structures. This statistic, while stark, speaks to the broader assault on the infrastructure of Black self-reliance and the collective loss of spaces dedicated to [cultural affirmation](/area/cultural-affirmation/) through hair. The loss of these salons was not just about property; it was about the obliteration of communal gathering places, sources of income for [Black women](/area/black-women/) entrepreneurs, and hubs for [ancestral practices](/area/ancestral-practices/) of hair care. 

> The attack on Greenwood’s beauty businesses illustrates how racial violence aimed to dismantle not only economic structures but also intimate spaces of Black cultural identity and self-care.

![The portrait captures refined hair artistry, where the sculpted ponytail with metallic banding represents a modern interpretation of Black hair traditions. The polished coils and expertly applied makeup create a harmonious blend of strength and grace, reflecting cultural identity through expressive styling](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/monochrome-portrait-of-woman-with-sculptural-ponytail-and-polished-coils.jpg)

## The Ecosystem of Black Beauty in Greenwood

The salons and barbershops of Greenwood were central to the community’s distinct social fabric. They represented economic opportunities for Black women, often pioneering entrepreneurs who created products and services specifically for Black hair, defying a mainstream beauty industry that largely ignored or pathologized Black natural textures. These women, many of whom were inspired by or were agents of visionaries like Madam C.J.

Walker, built thriving businesses that sustained families and contributed significantly to Greenwood’s overall prosperity. Their work provided dignity and self-care options, cultivating a sense of shared beauty and cultural belonging.

These establishments were more than just service providers. They were educational centers where traditional hair care knowledge was passed down, where new techniques were shared, and where Black women could access specialized products designed for their hair’s unique needs. This communal aspect of hair care reinforced identity and fostered a sense of collective well-being that was deeply interwoven with the [economic independence](/area/economic-independence/) of Greenwood. The destruction, therefore, severed these vital connections, impacting not just physical assets but the intangible heritage of hair care practices. 

The role of beauty professionals extended into the heart of community life. They were often trusted confidantes, sources of advice, and figures of inspiration. Their ability to provide [specialized care](/area/specialized-care/) for textured hair, which required distinct knowledge and techniques, set them apart and made their services invaluable. The resilience of these beauty entrepreneurs, even in the face of widespread systemic discrimination, underscored their determination to create spaces where Black individuals could feel seen, valued, and beautiful on their own terms. 

![Hands extract aloe vera pulp for a traditional hair treatment, connecting generations through natural haircare rituals. This image represents a tangible link to ancestral heritage and the enduring beauty of holistic textured hair care practices promoting optimal scalp health and resilient hair formations](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/extracting-aloe-vera-for-textured-hair-care-holistic-preparation-method.jpg)

## Immediate Aftermath and Economic Disruption

The massacre brought an abrupt end to Greenwood’s flourishing economy. The systematic burning and looting of businesses meant an immediate cessation of income for countless families. Many Black entrepreneurs, including those in the beauty sector, lost everything: their shops, their equipment, their inventory, and their means of livelihood. The subsequent denial of insurance claims, often by companies that had previously collected premiums from Greenwood residents, compounded the devastation, ensuring that recovery would be an uphill battle against overwhelming odds. 

Beyond the physical destruction, the massacre had a chilling effect on Black entrepreneurship, not only in Tulsa but across the nation. The knowledge that such prosperity could be violently stripped away served as a stark warning, potentially discouraging investment and home ownership in other Black communities. The wealth that was destroyed represented not just current assets but also intergenerational wealth ❉ the ability of future generations to inherit businesses, homes, and financial stability. This long-term economic disadvantage is a crucial aspect of the massacre’s enduring meaning, extending far beyond the immediate visible destruction. 

![This portrait presents a powerful expression of identity through hairstyling. With precision lines and expertly textured hair, it represents not just an aesthetic choice but celebrates cultural heritage and artistic individuality within textured hair traditions](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/striking-portrait-of-a-woman-with-short-textured-hair-and-clean-lines.jpg)

![Elevated hairstyle represents a cultural statement, reflecting Black hair traditions alongside contemporary expression. Confident presentation with nuanced detail invites contemplation on identity, wellness, and power, demonstrating both heritage and the transformative potential found within textured hair formations](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/striking-portrait-of-woman-featuring-natural-textured-hair-and-sleek-style.jpg)

## Academic

The Tulsa Race Massacre signifies a devastating act of racial violence and economic terrorism, meticulously designed to dismantle the accumulated wealth and social infrastructure of a self-sufficient Black community. From an academic vantage, its meaning extends to a profound case study in the intersection of racial capitalism, state-sanctioned violence, and the enduring impacts of intergenerational trauma. It is an event that reshaped the material and symbolic landscapes of Black existence, particularly impacting the intimate spheres of self-care and cultural identity, embodied deeply within textured hair heritage. The massacre, fundamentally, was an attempt to sever the connection between Black agency and its tangible expressions, such as community ownership and the flourishing of Black beauty practices. 

Greenwood’s economic success was a direct challenge to the prevailing racial hierarchy of the era, where Black economic independence was often perceived as a threat to white supremacy. The district, with its own banks, hospitals, and hundreds of businesses, exemplified a vibrant alternative economy. This self-contained system was not merely a matter of convenience; it was a deliberate strategy of economic insularity, necessitated by segregation, which allowed for the circulation of dollars within the community for extended periods, creating significant wealth for its residents. Academic examinations frequently highlight this as a critical element of Black agency, a structural response to a hostile external environment. 

The impact of the massacre on specific cultural practices, particularly those surrounding textured hair, provides a poignant and often overlooked dimension of its academic meaning. The destruction of businesses dedicated to [Black hair care](/area/black-hair-care/) ❉ salons, barbershops, and beauty schools ❉ represented a direct assault on spaces of cultural affirmation and economic empowerment for Black women. These were not simply commercial enterprises; they were sites where ancestral knowledge of hair was preserved, adapted, and disseminated. They were spaces of communal gathering, where Black women found solace, shared stories, and engaged in practices that reinforced their dignity and collective identity in a world that routinely devalued them. 

A powerful historical example illuminating this connection centers on **Mabel B. Little**, a remarkable entrepreneur and survivor whose story embodies the intersection of economic aspiration, community building, and [textured hair heritage](/area/textured-hair-heritage/) in Greenwood. Little, arriving in Tulsa with scant resources in 1913, epitomized the district’s spirit of self-reliance. By 1917, she had established the **Little Rose Beauty Salon**, a business that quickly became an integral part of Greenwood’s social and economic fabric.

Her salon, which specialized in the **Taylor System** of hairdressing ❉ a technique designed for textured hair that mainstream salons ignored ❉ became a sanctuary where Black women could access specialized care often denied to them elsewhere. This focused care not only met a crucial need but also affirmed the self-worth of her clientele, allowing them to feel valued and beautiful in a society that often sought to diminish their appearance.

> Mabel B. Little’s Little Rose Beauty Salon stands as a powerful symbol of Greenwood’s self-reliance, offering essential textured hair care and communal affirmation before its destruction.
The significance of Little’s salon is underscored by her certification from **Madam C.J. Walker’s beauty course**. Madam Walker, a pioneering figure in Black entrepreneurship, built an empire around products and practices specifically designed for Black women’s hair, creating a vast network of agents who were not merely salespeople but independent businesswomen. The presence of a Madam C.J.

Walker College of Beauty Culture in Tulsa further attests to the deep infrastructure of Black beauty cultivation in Greenwood. The destruction of Little Rose and similar establishments was not merely a loss of property; it was a profound disruption of a thriving self-help economy and a cultural nexus where Black women actively shaped their identity through shared practices of self-care and adornment. The material loss included the very tools, products, and knowledge that sustained this cultural practice, leaving a profound void that echoed through the collective consciousness.

![The monochrome palette accentuates the woman](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/black-and-white-portrait-of-woman-with-natural-hair-in-headwrap.jpg)

## Echoes from the Source: Ancestral Practices and Economic Roots

The foundations of [Black hair](/area/black-hair/) care in Greenwood, and indeed across the diaspora, spring from deep ancestral practices that long predate the commercial salons of the early 20th century. Prior to the formalization of beauty businesses, hair care rituals were often communal affairs, passed down through generations within families and local gatherings. These practices, rooted in African traditions, emphasized health, growth, and symbolic adornment.

The evolution of these practices into a burgeoning industry in places like Greenwood was a testament to Black ingenuity and adaptation under oppressive conditions. The salons, in essence, became formalized extensions of these ancestral hearths, professionalizing and expanding access to specialized knowledge.

The economic vibrancy of Greenwood, including its beauty sector, was a direct consequence of a deliberate choice: to build an economy for ourselves, by ourselves, in a segregated world. This economic detour, as some scholars term it, allowed Black dollars to circulate internally, fostering a rich ecosystem of Black-owned businesses. Beauty businesses were particularly powerful engines within this system, as they catered to an essential, culturally specific need that the white market either ignored or exploited. They provided not only services but also a sense of pride and self-worth, making them indispensable to the community’s social and psychological well-being. 

- **The Black Dollar’s Journey** ❉ Money often stayed within Greenwood for nearly a year, creating a powerful economic multiplier effect. This internal circulation supported local entrepreneurs and built community wealth.

- **Skill Specialization** ❉ Black beauty professionals developed and refined techniques, like the Taylor System for textured hair, demonstrating expertise and catering to unique needs often unaddressed by mainstream beauty industries.

- **Entrepreneurial Legacy** ❉ Figures like Mabel B. Little and Madam C.J. Walker exemplified how Black women could achieve economic independence and create employment opportunities for countless others in a time of severe racial and gender discrimination.
The salon environment provided a unique blend of commerce and cultural preservation. It was a space where the tactile knowledge of how to nurture and adorn textured hair was not only applied but also exchanged, becoming a living archive of heritage. These spaces held a deep significance for communal identity, fostering conversations that spanned personal well-being to civic engagement. The act of getting one’s hair done was frequently accompanied by an exchange of news, advice, and solidarity, reinforcing the social fabric of Greenwood. 

![This stark visual of monochrome wood end grain symbolizes enduring Black hair traditions, where each spiral represents generations of resilience and care the wood](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/monochrome-end-grain-wood-texture-rings-ancestral-growth-patterns.jpg)

## The Tender Thread: Intertwined Identity and Resilience

The destruction of Greenwood’s beauty infrastructure represented a deliberate attempt to sever the “tender thread” connecting Black identity with self-care and communal affirmation. The physical loss of salons meant the immediate disruption of income for Black women entrepreneurs, but it also entailed the emotional and psychological toll of losing spaces dedicated to the holistic well-being of textured hair. For many, hair care was a ritual, a moment of reprieve and self-love, and its disruption compounded the trauma of losing homes and community. 

Despite the comprehensive nature of the attack, the spirit of resilience in Greenwood was extraordinary. Mabel B. Little, for instance, exemplified this enduring resolve. After the massacre, her salon, along with her other properties, lay in ruins.

Yet, her determination saw her rebuild the Little Rose Beauty Salon, an act that symbolized the broader effort of the Black community to restore their district’s sense of pride and self-determination. This rebuilding was not merely about economic recovery; it was about re-establishing the cultural anchors and symbols of autonomy that were so violently targeted. The very act of re-opening these spaces became a statement of defiance and a commitment to ancestral memory.

The persistence of Black hair traditions, even in the face of such profound violence, speaks to their deep cultural roots. For survivors, the ability to continue caring for their textured hair, whether in makeshift settings or eventually rebuilt salons, became a quiet act of normalcy and resistance. It was a means of reclaiming a piece of their identity, a physical connection to their heritage that could not be fully consumed by flames. The hair itself became a witness, a testament to endurance and the living memory of a vibrant past. 

![Botanical textures evoke the organic foundations of holistic hair care, mirroring Black hair traditions and mixed-race hair narratives. This leaf arrangement, reminiscent of ancestral heritage, connects natural ingredients with expressive styling for texture, promoting wellness and celebrating the artistry of textured hair formations](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/artistic-black-and-white-leaves-arrangement-represents-natural-textured-hair.jpg)

## The Unbound Helix: Shaping Futures and Voicing Identity

The Tulsa Race Massacre continues to shape the future of Black hair experiences, embodying the “unbound helix” of identity and resilience. The long-term economic consequences, particularly the denial of insurance claims and the destruction of generational wealth, have created disparities that persist into the present day. This history contributes to contemporary discussions about economic justice and reparations, acknowledging that the wealth accumulated through businesses like hair salons was systematically dismantled, leaving a lasting impact on Black economic mobility. The very act of acknowledging and defining the massacre academically becomes a vital step in addressing these lingering disparities. 

Beyond the economic, the massacre’s legacy also informs the ongoing discourse around Black hair as a symbol of identity and resistance. The trauma of the event, though suppressed for decades, has re-emerged in collective memory, reinforcing the importance of Black-owned beauty spaces as safe havens and cultural bastions. The hair journey for many Black individuals today carries the weight of this history, understanding that the care and adornment of textured hair are intertwined with a legacy of struggle, survival, and profound beauty. Modern movements advocating for natural hair acceptance and challenging discriminatory hair practices stand as a continuation of the same self-affirmation that characterized Greenwood’s beauty culture. 

> The massacre’s legacy reverberates through contemporary Black hair experiences, underscoring the enduring connection between self-care, identity, and the pursuit of justice.
The academic understanding of the Tulsa Race Massacre compels us to consider the multifaceted nature of violence ❉ not just physical, but also economic, cultural, and psychological. It reveals how attacks on Black prosperity and institutions, even seemingly intimate ones like beauty salons, have profound, long-lasting consequences for collective identity and intergenerational well-being. By studying this period, we gain a deeper comprehension of the continuous struggle for self-determination and the enduring power of cultural heritage, particularly as it pertains to the unique and often politicized experiences of textured hair. The ongoing pursuit of justice for the massacre’s survivors and descendants is a recognition that the helix of history is not yet unbound, still seeking its full and rightful trajectory. 

![Classic beauty radiates from this afro-adorned Black woman in a stark black and white studio setting, honoring heritage. Her composed demeanor and the spotlight on her natural hair texture capture strength, celebrating Black hair traditions and identity through expressive hairstyling](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/elegant-black-woman-with-afro-hairstyle-in-studio-portrait-black-and-white.jpg)

![The artist](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/artist-in-thought-black-and-white-textured-hair-in-studio.jpg)

## Reflection on the Heritage of Tulsa Race Massacre

The Tulsa Race Massacre, while a stark chapter of profound loss, beckons us to consider not only what was destroyed but also the enduring heritage that survived, especially as it resonates with the very strands of our being ❉ our hair. This event serves as a poignant reminder that Black and [mixed-race hair heritage](/area/mixed-race-hair-heritage/) is not merely a collection of styles or products; it is a living archive of resilience, economic ingenuity, and deep cultural meaning. The devastation in Greenwood did not eradicate the ancestral knowledge of how to care for textured hair, nor could it extinguish the spirit of those who understood its significance. 

The stories of individuals like Mabel B. Little and the broader network of Madam C.J. Walker agents stand as testaments to the profound connection between self-care, community building, and economic autonomy.

They illustrate how the act of tending to textured hair was, and remains, an act of self-affirmation, a quiet celebration of identity in a world that often sought to define it by narrow, exclusionary standards. Even as the flames consumed structures, the wisdom of the hand, the understanding of the strand, and the power of communal bonds persisted, passed down through whispers and enduring practices.

Today, as we nurture our textured hair, we carry forward the legacy of those in Greenwood. Each coil, each curl, each twist holds the memory of ancestral wisdom, the determination of entrepreneurs who built an economic haven, and the enduring strength of a community that, despite unimaginable trauma, chose to rebuild. The massage of ancestral oils into the scalp, the careful parting of sections, the braiding or coiling, these rituals echo the resilience woven into the very fabric of Black life before, during, and after the massacre. The event, in this context, becomes less about absolute destruction and more about the enduring, vibrant, and unbound nature of Black hair heritage, perpetually speaking its truth. 

![This monochrome portrait immortalizes a woman](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/striking-black-and-white-portrait-woman-afro-hair-undercut-eye-makeup.jpg)

![Illuminated by stark contrast, the portrait highlights the beauty of coiled texture. Her unwavering gaze, combined with the visual contrast, speaks to cultural narratives, empowerment and the celebration of ancestral black hair traditions while embracing mixed-race hair narratives and styles](/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/striking-black-and-white-portrait-revealing-strength-resilience-and-textured.jpg)

## References

- Gibbs, R. & Green, D. (2023). <i>After the Burning: The Economic Effects of the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre_. Harvard University.

- Hobkirk, L. (2021). _Madam C. J. Walker_. Abdo Publishing.

- Johnson, H. B. (1998). _Black Wall Street ❉ From Riot to Renaissance in Tulsa’s Historic Greenwood District_. Eakin Press.

- Little, M. B. (1990). _Fire on Mount Zion: My Life and History as a Black Woman in America_. Melvin B. Tolson Black Heritage Center, Langston University.

- Parrish, M. E. J. (1998). _Events of the Tulsa Disaster_. Out on a Limb Publishing.

- Rappaport, L. (2001). _Madam C.J. Walker and A’Lelia Walker: Their Lives and Times_. Indiana Historical Society Press.

- Taylor, S. (2020). _The Tulsa Race Massacre: A Photographic History_. University of Oklahoma Press.

- Washington, B. T. (1907). _The Story of the Negro: The Rise of the Race from Slavery_. Doubleday, Page & Company.

## Glossary

### [Textured Hair](https://roothea.co/area/textured-hair/)

Meaning ❉ Textured hair describes the natural hair structure characterized by its unique curl patterns, ranging from expansive waves to closely wound coils, a common trait across individuals of Black and mixed heritage.

### [Hair Heritage](https://roothea.co/area/hair-heritage/)

Meaning ❉ Hair Heritage denotes the ancestral continuum of knowledge, customary practices, and genetic characteristics that shape the distinct nature of Black and mixed-race hair.

### [Specialized Care](https://roothea.co/area/specialized-care/)

Meaning ❉ Specialized Care, within the gentle realm of textured hair understanding, refers to the precise application of knowledge, meticulously tailored to the distinct needs of Black and mixed-race hair.

### [Beauty Salons](https://roothea.co/area/beauty-salons/)

Meaning ❉ Beauty Salons, particularly those attuned to the unique characteristics of textured hair, function as specialized environments where the comprehension of hair biology and its cultural legacy converges with practical application.

### [Black Hair](https://roothea.co/area/black-hair/)

Meaning ❉ Black Hair describes the spectrum of hair textures primarily found within communities of African heritage, recognized by its distinct curl patterns ❉ from expansive waves to tightly coiled formations ❉ and an often elliptical follicle shape, which fundamentally shapes its unique growth trajectory.

### [Hair Care](https://roothea.co/area/hair-care/)

Meaning ❉ Hair Care, when understood through the lens of textured hair, signifies a mindful discipline for preserving the vigor of coily, kinky, and wavy strands.

### [Mixed-Race Hair Experience](https://roothea.co/area/mixed-race-hair-experience/)

Meaning ❉ The Mixed-Race Hair Experience precisely defines the nuanced process of comprehending and tending to hair that presents a distinct interplay of genetic legacies, often drawing from Black and other ancestral lineages.

### [Tulsa Race Massacre](https://roothea.co/area/tulsa-race-massacre/)

Meaning ❉ The Tulsa Race Massacre, a devastating historical event from 1921, saw the destruction of Greenwood, often known as Black Wall Street.

### [Mixed-Race Experiences](https://roothea.co/area/mixed-race-experiences/)

Meaning ❉ Mixed-Race Experiences, within the specialized field of textured hair, signify the distinctive personal path individuals traverse in gaining a thorough understanding and effective care for hair that often presents a varied spectrum of curl patterns and moisture requirements, reflecting diverse ancestral contributions.

### [Cultural Affirmation](https://roothea.co/area/cultural-affirmation/)

Meaning ❉ Cultural Affirmation is a gentle yet powerful acknowledgment of the inherent beauty and distinct structure of textured hair, whether coils, kinks, or waves, particularly within Black and mixed-race heritage.

## Explore Your Heritage

### [Race Theory](https://roothea.co/term/race-theory/)
![The monochrome portrait unveils the expressive potential of short, coiled textured hair, illuminated by dynamic shadows that accent the face. The image celebrates the confluence of ancestral heritage and modern styling techniques, highlighting the beauty and adaptability of natural mixed race textured hair.](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/monochrome-portrait-radiant-woman-short-coiled-hairstyle-with-striking-shadow.jpg)

### [What Spiritual Beliefs Connect Hair Rituals to African and Mixed-Race Heritage?](https://roothea.co/question/what-spiritual-beliefs-connect-hair-rituals-to-african-and-mixed-race-heritage/)
![Submerged in tranquil waters, a woman](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/serene-woman-embraces-reflections-in-still-water-textured-hair-journey.jpg)

### [What Ancestral Hair Care Practices Link Amazonian Plants to Black and Mixed-Race Heritage?](https://roothea.co/question/what-ancestral-hair-care-practices-link-amazonian-plants-to-black-and-mixed-race-heritage/)
![The striking interplay of light and shadow across layered leaves mirrors the varied tones and rich textures within black hair. This composition invites reflection on ancestral knowledge and the potent botanical ingredients traditionally cherished for nourishing and supporting healthy coil definition and resilience.](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/monochromatic-leaves-reveal-textural-depths-black-hair-ingredient-inspiration.jpg)

### [What Enduring Heritage Is Found in Black and Mixed-Race Hair Traditions?](https://roothea.co/question/what-enduring-heritage-is-found-in-black-and-mixed-race-hair-traditions/)
![This monochrome portrait encapsulates a mindful moment as the woman applies her holistic treatment, promoting the health and definition of her coils. The photograph celebrates her connection to ancestral self-care practices, highlighting the beauty and strength found in textured hair and its unique spiral patterns.](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/young-woman-applies-holistic-hair-mask-for-natural-coil-definition-black-and.jpg)

### [What Is the Historical Significance of Hair Care Practices in Black and Mixed-Race Heritage?](https://roothea.co/question/what-is-the-historical-significance-of-hair-care-practices-in-black-and-mixed-race-heritage/)
![This portrait preserves a moment of heritage, the traditional headdress speaking to cultural identity and a lineage of artistry. The woman](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/moroccan-woman-adorned-in-traditional-headdress-black-and-white-portrait.jpg)

### [What Is the Ancestral Significance of Hair in Mixed-Race Heritage?](https://roothea.co/question/what-is-the-ancestral-significance-of-hair-in-mixed-race-heritage/)
![The elegant updo and carefully articulated cornrows in this portrait speak to the rich heritage of Black hair artistry, offering a powerful statement about identity, self-expression, and the deep cultural roots interwoven within each strand and its unique formation.](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/sophisticated-portrait-of-woman-with-braided-hair-in-elegant-updo-style.jpg)

### [What Is the Cultural Significance of Hair Oiling in Black and Mixed-Race Heritage?](https://roothea.co/question/what-is-the-cultural-significance-of-hair-oiling-in-black-and-mixed-race-heritage/)
![This intergenerational photograph explores familial bonds. It highlights textured hair stories and the passing down of heritage between grandparent and child.](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/generational-bond-grandfather-and-child-together-textured-hair-black-and-mixed.jpg)

### [What Enduring Heritage Does Oiling Practices Hold for Black and Mixed-Race Hair Traditions?](https://roothea.co/question/what-enduring-heritage-does-oiling-practices-hold-for-black-and-mixed-race-hair-traditions/)
![Embracing ancestral wisdom, the hands prepare a rice water rinse, a treasured holistic practice for enhancing textured hair](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/hands-washing-rice-for-textured-hair-rinse-holistic-ancestral-practice.jpg)

### [Mixed-Race Hair Genetics](https://roothea.co/term/mixed-race-hair-genetics/)
![This elegant monochrome portrait captures the beauty of textured hair formations, showcasing an artful blend of flowing waves and intricate braids that celebrate Black hair traditions. The image evokes a sense of heritage and ancestral connection through expressive styling.](https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/monochrome-portrait-of-woman-with-elaborate-waved-hair-and-braided-details.jpg)

---

## Raw Schema Data

```json
{
    "@context": "https://schema.org",
    "@type": "BreadcrumbList",
    "itemListElement": [
        {
            "@type": "ListItem",
            "position": 1,
            "name": "Home",
            "item": "https://roothea.co/"
        },
        {
            "@type": "ListItem",
            "position": 2,
            "name": "Term",
            "item": "https://roothea.co/term/"
        },
        {
            "@type": "ListItem",
            "position": 3,
            "name": "Tulsa Race Massacre",
            "item": "https://roothea.co/term/tulsa-race-massacre/"
        }
    ]
}
```

```json
{
    "@context": "https://schema.org",
    "@type": "Article",
    "mainEntityOfPage": {
        "@type": "WebPage",
        "@id": "https://roothea.co/term/tulsa-race-massacre/"
    },
    "headline": "Tulsa Race Massacre ❉ Term",
    "description": "Meaning ❉ The Tulsa Race Massacre, a 1921 attack on Black Wall Street, represents a devastating blow to Black economic and cultural heritage, particularly impacting hair care businesses. ❉ Term",
    "url": "https://roothea.co/term/tulsa-race-massacre/",
    "author": {
        "@type": "Person",
        "name": "Roothea",
        "url": "https://roothea.co/author/roothea/"
    },
    "datePublished": "2025-06-09T20:05:48+08:00",
    "dateModified": "2025-06-09T20:05:48+08:00",
    "publisher": {
        "@type": "Organization",
        "name": "Roothea"
    },
    "articleSection": [
        "Term"
    ],
    "image": {
        "@type": "ImageObject",
        "url": "https://roothea.co/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/hands-washing-rice-for-textured-hair-rinse-holistic-ancestral-practice.jpg",
        "caption": "Embracing ancestral wisdom, the hands prepare a rice water rinse, a treasured holistic practice for enhancing textured hair's strength and vitality this highlights the intrinsic link between hair care, heritage, and the nurturing of expressive identity within Black and mixed-race hair traditions."
    }
}
```

```json
{
    "@context": "https://schema.org",
    "@type": "WebPage",
    "@id": "https://roothea.co/term/tulsa-race-massacre/",
    "mentions": [
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/tulsa-race-massacre/",
            "name": "Tulsa Race Massacre",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/tulsa-race-massacre/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ The Tulsa Race Massacre, a devastating historical event from 1921, saw the destruction of Greenwood, often known as Black Wall Street."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/textured-hair/",
            "name": "Textured Hair",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/textured-hair/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Textured hair describes the natural hair structure characterized by its unique curl patterns, ranging from expansive waves to closely wound coils, a common trait across individuals of Black and mixed heritage."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/hair-care/",
            "name": "Hair Care",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/hair-care/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Hair Care, when understood through the lens of textured hair, signifies a mindful discipline for preserving the vigor of coily, kinky, and wavy strands."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/beauty-salons/",
            "name": "Beauty Salons",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/beauty-salons/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Beauty Salons, particularly those attuned to the unique characteristics of textured hair, function as specialized environments where the comprehension of hair biology and its cultural legacy converges with practical application."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/textured-hair-care/",
            "name": "Textured Hair Care",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/textured-hair-care/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Textured Hair Care refers to the considered practice of attending to the unique structure of coily, kinky, and wavy hair, particularly for those with Black and mixed-race heritage."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/black-beauty/",
            "name": "Black Beauty",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/black-beauty/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ \"Black Beauty,\" within the Roothea framework, signifies a cultivated comprehension of textured hair, moving beyond mere surface observation to an informed connection with its distinct characteristics."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/hair-salons/",
            "name": "Hair Salons",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/hair-salons/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Hair salons, particularly for individuals with textured hair, function as key centers for advancing understanding of unique curl and coil formations, porosity characteristics, and natural growth patterns."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/cultural-affirmation/",
            "name": "Cultural Affirmation",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/cultural-affirmation/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Cultural Affirmation is a gentle yet powerful acknowledgment of the inherent beauty and distinct structure of textured hair, whether coils, kinks, or waves, particularly within Black and mixed-race heritage."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/ancestral-practices/",
            "name": "Ancestral Practices",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/ancestral-practices/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Ancestral Practices, within the context of textured hair understanding, describe the enduring wisdom and gentle techniques passed down through generations, forming a foundational knowledge for nurturing Black and mixed-race hair."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/black-women/",
            "name": "Black Women",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/black-women/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Black women, as central figures in textured hair understanding, gently guide the comprehension of coily and kinky strands."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/economic-independence/",
            "name": "Economic Independence",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/economic-independence/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Economic Independence, within the sphere of textured hair, describes the gentle yet powerful self-reliance an individual gains over their hair care approach."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/specialized-care/",
            "name": "Specialized Care",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/specialized-care/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Specialized Care, within the gentle realm of textured hair understanding, refers to the precise application of knowledge, meticulously tailored to the distinct needs of Black and mixed-race hair."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/black-hair-care/",
            "name": "Black Hair Care",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/black-hair-care/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Black Hair Care, in its truest form, is a gentle science, a considered approach to the unique morphology and needs of coily, kinky, and wavy hair patterns, often of African descent."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/textured-hair-heritage/",
            "name": "Textured Hair Heritage",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/textured-hair-heritage/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ \"Textured Hair Heritage\" denotes the deep-seated, historically transmitted understanding and practices specific to hair exhibiting coil, kink, and wave patterns, particularly within Black and mixed-race ancestries."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/black-hair/",
            "name": "Black Hair",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/black-hair/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Black Hair describes the spectrum of hair textures primarily found within communities of African heritage, recognized by its distinct curl patterns ❉ from expansive waves to tightly coiled formations ❉ and an often elliptical follicle shape, which fundamentally shapes its unique growth trajectory."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/mixed-race-hair-heritage/",
            "name": "Mixed-Race Hair Heritage",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/mixed-race-hair-heritage/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ \"Mixed-Race Hair Heritage\" signifies the unique genetic inheritance expressed through hair, arising from a lineage encompassing varied ethnic origins, often including African and European descents."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/hair-heritage/",
            "name": "Hair Heritage",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/hair-heritage/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Hair Heritage denotes the ancestral continuum of knowledge, customary practices, and genetic characteristics that shape the distinct nature of Black and mixed-race hair."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/mixed-race-hair-experience/",
            "name": "Mixed-Race Hair Experience",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/mixed-race-hair-experience/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ The Mixed-Race Hair Experience precisely defines the nuanced process of comprehending and tending to hair that presents a distinct interplay of genetic legacies, often drawing from Black and other ancestral lineages."
        },
        {
            "@type": "DefinedTerm",
            "@id": "https://roothea.co/area/mixed-race-experiences/",
            "name": "Mixed-Race Experiences",
            "url": "https://roothea.co/area/mixed-race-experiences/",
            "description": "Meaning ❉ Mixed-Race Experiences, within the specialized field of textured hair, signify the distinctive personal path individuals traverse in gaining a thorough understanding and effective care for hair that often presents a varied spectrum of curl patterns and moisture requirements, reflecting diverse ancestral contributions."
        }
    ]
}
```


---

**Original URL:** https://roothea.co/term/tulsa-race-massacre/
