Oakies

"Okies" refers to residents of Oklahoma who, during the Great Depression and Dust Bowl era in the 1930s, migrated westward, especially to California, seeking better economic opportunities. The term originated from "Oklahoma" and was initially used derogatorily but later became associated with these migrant workers. Many faced hardships, discrimination, and poverty while trying to escape agricultural and economic devastation at home. The migration highlighted the widespread struggles of rural Americans during that period and their quest for stability amidst environmental and economic collapse.