Jessica Crabtree

November 4, 1879: Birthday of Will Rogers

This year marks the 130th anniversary Will Rogers’s birth in Oologah, Cherokee Nation in Indian Territory (what is today Oklahoma). Both parents were of Cherokee heritage; his father was a prominent leader in the Cherokee Nation.

Probably America’s most loved humorist, Will Rogers is famed for his congenial personality, piercing wit, and astute judgment. He rose from an early career as a cowboy to a successful movie star, radio personality, newspaper columnist, and international celebrity. In his vast world travels, his observant nature gained him valuable knowledge of the characters and habits of people of all walks of life. He is still much admired for his relentless attacks on corruption and his shrewd criticism of politics. His thoughts on society, economy, and government were far ahead of his time and are still relevant today. His death in a plane crash near Barrow, Alaska in 1935 was mourned all over the world.

Read a brief bio

Online Exhibit: Will Rogers at Tulsa World