Reservation

Definition

A reservation is a designated area of land managed by a Native American tribe under the U.S. Bureau of Indian Affairs or similar government entities. Reservations were created as a result of treaties, often involving the relocation of tribes from their ancestral lands, and they serve as a place for tribes to exercise sovereignty, culture, and governance.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Reservations were established primarily during the 19th century as a way to confine Native American tribes to specific areas while allowing westward expansion.
2. Each reservation is considered a separate entity with its own governing systems, which can include tribal councils and courts.
3. Conditions on reservations often reflect socioeconomic challenges, including high unemployment rates and limited access to healthcare and education.
4. Some tribes have successfully revived their cultural practices and economies on reservations through initiatives like gaming and tourism.
5. Land within reservations can sometimes be held in trust by the federal government, meaning it cannot be taxed or sold without government approval.

Review Questions

• How did the creation of reservations impact the cultural practices of Native American tribes?
  • The creation of reservations significantly impacted the cultural practices of Native American tribes by forcing many communities into confined areas away from their ancestral lands. While this confinement disrupted traditional ways of life, it also led to efforts to preserve and revitalize cultural heritage within these designated spaces. Tribes developed programs and initiatives to teach language, customs, and traditional practices to younger generations, fostering a sense of identity even within challenging environments.
• Discuss how tribal sovereignty is exercised on reservations and its implications for governance.
  • Tribal sovereignty on reservations allows Native American tribes to govern themselves independently from state laws while still being subject to federal law. This means tribes can establish their own legal systems, enforce laws, and create policies that reflect their unique cultural values. The exercise of sovereignty has important implications for governance as it enables tribes to manage resources, deliver services, and create economic opportunities tailored to their communities, thereby enhancing self-determination.
• Evaluate the effects of economic development initiatives on reservations and their potential benefits or drawbacks for tribal communities.
  • Economic development initiatives on reservations can have profound effects on tribal communities by providing jobs, generating revenue, and improving infrastructure. Successful ventures like gaming operations or tourism can enhance tribal autonomy and financial independence. However, these initiatives can also pose challenges such as dependency on volatile industries or conflicts over resource management. It's essential for tribes to balance economic growth with cultural preservation and social responsibility to ensure sustainable development that benefits all members of the community.

Related terms

Tribal sovereignty: The inherent authority of indigenous tribes to govern themselves within the borders of the U.S., allowing them to establish their own laws and policies.

Treaty: A formal agreement between two or more sovereign entities, often involving land rights, resources, and self-governance for Native American tribes.

Bureau of Indian Affairs: A U.S. government agency responsible for managing relations with Native American tribes, including oversight of reservations and the provision of services.