To give everyone a fair chance, a cannon shot was fired to signal the beginning of the land rush when registrants were allowed to enter the strip. Those who tried to get in beforehand were called "Sooners"; the nickname of Oklahoma is the Sooner State.
To ensure everyone had an equal opportunity, a cannon shot was fired to signal the start of the land rush when registrants were permitted entry. Those who attempted to enter before their turn were labeled "Sooners"; Oklahoma's name is the Sooner State.