For much of the 20th century , many African - Americans left the region . Census data suggest many are returning to the region . An economic boom in the Sun ##flower industry was a key factor , experts say . Civil rights legislation passed during the 1960s helped set the stage for the next era of African-American migration : History : Explore the different African - American migrations through history .
For much of the 20th century , many African - Americans left the region . Census data suggest many are returning to the region . An economic boom in the Sun ##flower industry was a key factor , experts say . History : Explore the different African - American migrations through history .