They called the area Black Wall Street because many Black wealthy people moved to the area. Greenwood did not have its own financial market in the way that the stock market is set up. However, they had so many successful businesses. They also called this area “Little Africa.”

The houses there were huge. Many people were wealthy who lived there and I feel that the Tulsan white residents of the time resented the prestige and independence of the Black community in Greenwood.

One of the papers blamed “Niggers with Money.” That indicates, to me, that they were blaming the idea of Black people having money for the tragedy that unfolded.

They did not own stocks. Sadly, all their money was put into their businesses and homes. Insurance companies refused to reimburse them and many Black people went from wealthy to shirtless in the matter of a few hours.