The fragmentation of large nineteenth-century reservations resulted in the creation of American Indian allotment geographies in the United States. Federal Indian policy, namely the General Allotment Act of 1887, allowed the US government to break up large reservations, allot land to individual Indians, and sell the surplus to non-Indian settlers.…

This article seeks to explain the nature of the arguments the Iroquois presented to the US government in trying to prevent their removal. In the letters they wrote to the federal government from the 1830s to the 1850s they emphasized their own law as well as that of the United States. They drew on whatever perception of law they deemed was best…

What is the relationship between Indigenous peoples and violent reactions to contemporary states? This research explores differing, culturally informed notions of attachment to land or place territory. Mechanistic ties and organic ties to land are linked to a key distinction between Indigenous peoples and non-Indigenous peoples. Utilizing the…

Examining the theory used by the Puritans to justify their jurisdictional claims in America, this essay discusses Roger Williams' arguments for the validity and significance of the English patent in New England as applicable to the Narragansett Indians and to dissident Rhode Islanders. (JC)

Suggesting there has been a nationalistic psychology inherent in white America's relationship with the American Indian, this article asserts that the Puritans and 19th century politicians are alike in their inability to accept the idea that Indians have not wanted to live like the white man. (JC)

Traces the history of the Canadian and New York Cayuga Indians' claims against New York State and other governments from 1780 to the present. Discusses the Cayugas' interaction with neighboring tribes and the terms of a succession of treaties with various White governments. (SB)

Describes the history of taxation of Nebraska land held by federal government for Omaha and Winnebago Indians. Explains taxation of land "trust allotments" to individual Indians. Describes federal legislation of 1910 and 1916 that further authorized Nebraska taxation of land, causing many Indians to sell allotments. Contains 42…

Although 1887-1930 is characterized as the period of assimilation, American Indian policy during that time included coercion to acquire tribal land and natural resources. This policy is illustrated by the experience of the Gros Ventres and Assiniboines of Fort Belknap Reservation who lost control of timber, minerals, and water rights. (JHZ)