 Traditionally , Tulsa 's economy has been led by the energy industry . The United States Oil and Gas Association , formerly the Mid @-@ Continent Oil and Gas Association , was founded in Tulsa on October 13 , 1917 , six months after the entry of the United States into World War I. At the time Tulsa called itself " The Oil Capital of the World " . At its creation , the association worked to provide petroleum to the Allied forces . In the decades since its establishment , the association is recognized as a leading advocate for producers of domestic oil and gas . 
