What is the Indian Reorganization Act of 1934?
The Indian Reorganization Act of 1934, also known as the Wheeler-Howard Act, was a congressional act aimed at restoring control to Native American tribes. It ended the government policy of “termination” which had been in place since the early 1900s and instead sought to give tribes greater autonomy in governing themselves. The Act recognized the right of tribes to maintain their own government, pass laws, and protect their lands. It granted full U.S. citizenships to all Native American adults, created tribal councils so tribes could manage their own affairs, and provided funds for developing tribal economies. It also banned allotment, which had previously allowed the federal government to break up tribal land among individual Native Americans. In New Hampshire, the Indian Reorganization Act of 1934 had a positive effect. Tribes in the state, such as the Abenaki and Penacook, were able to regain control of their lands and improve their economies. This allowed them to maintain a degree of autonomy and cultural strength in the face of increasing pressure from non-Native Americans. Today, the Indian Reorganization Act of 1934 remains a key part of Native American Law in New Hampshire. It provided a foundation for federally recognized tribes to protect their rights, establish their own governments, and maintain their cultural heritage. This act is seen as a turning point in the history of Native American affairs and has helped to shape their lives for generations to come.
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