US Federal Government and Native American Treaties: Past and Present

For centuries, the relationship between the United States federal government and Native American nations has been complex and often fraught with challenges. From the signing of the first treaties in the 18th century to the present day, these agreements have played a significant role in shaping the relationship between the government and indigenous communities.

Treaty Period and its End

The Treaty Period, a time defined by a series of formal agreements between the United States government and Native American tribes, lasted from the late 18th to mid-19th centuries. This period was marked by a series of negotiated treaties that sought to establish peaceful coexistence and delineate boundaries for lands occupied by various Native American tribes. However, this era came to a definitive end in 1871, with significant repercussions for the subsequent relationship between the government and Native American nations.

One of the last peace treaties signed with a Native tribe occurred in 1975 when Chief Howard Tommie of the Seminole nation formalized a treaty with the US Government. The quote, "For as long as the grass grows and the wind blows," encapsulates the enduring nature of such agreements and the commitment made by both parties at the time.

It is crucial to recognize, however, that the Treaty Period, while formally ending in 1871, did not bring an end to the negotiation process or treaties entirely. Instead, it shifted to a different form of interaction, with the US government continuing to engage Native American nations through the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA), a division of the Department of the Interior.

US Government Interaction with Native Americans: Post-Treaty Period

Following the conclusion of the Treaty Period, the relationship between the US government and Native American tribes shifted towards a more regulatory and oversight role. The Bureau of Indian Affairs was established in 1824 to manage the government's relations with Native American tribes and to oversee issues related to tribal land, education, and health. Over the years, the BIA has evolved and continues to play a significant role in the governance of Native American nations.

Today, the primary means of interaction between the US government and Native American communities is through the Bureau of Indian Affairs. This department serves multiple purposes, including:

Managing trust assets held in trust by the federal government for the benefit of Native American tribes and individuals Administering programs for education, health, and social services for Native American populations Protecting and preserving Native American lands and resources Promoting self-governance and economic development within Native American communities

Broken Promises and Ongoing Challenges

The history of Native American treaties in the United States is characterized by broken promises and a legacy of mistreatment. A key point to consider is that the U.S. government has officially recognized that all previous treaties with Native American tribes were broken. This fact underscores the persistent challenges and ongoing legal, social, and political issues facing these communities.

Examples of broken treaties include:

Abandonment of Reservations: Many treaties guaranteed Native American tribes permanently-protected lands, but over time, the government illegally abdicated these reservations, leading to significant land loss. Failure to Provide Services: Treaty provisions often included promises of essential services like education and healthcare. However, the government often failed to deliver on these promises, exacerbating longstanding issues. Economic Exploitation: Many tribes were subjected to exploitative economic practices, with agreements often resulting in lands and resources being used without fair compensation.

Despite these challenges, Native American communities continue to fight for their rights and have achieved significant victories in recent years. Legal battles and advocacy efforts have led to important reforms and recognition of their sovereignty.

Conclusion

The relationship between the US federal government and Native American nations has a rich and complex history, one marked by both cooperation and conflict. While the Treaty Period officially ended in 1871, the Bureau of Indian Affairs and other federal programs have continued to interact with Native American communities, though often with a track record of broken promises and unresolved issues.

Understanding the historical context and ongoing challenges is essential for any discussion regarding current policies and future relations. Efforts to reconcile past injustices and foster a more collaborative, equitable relationship between the government and Native American nations are ongoing and crucial for the well-being of both communities.