What is the Indian Reorganization Act of 1934?

The Indian Reorganization Act (IRA) of 1934, also known as the Wheeler-Howard Act, is a federal law that was designed to promote tribal self-governance and improved economic conditions for Native Americans living in the United States. The IRA was enacted in response to the failed policies of the previous half-century, which had seen tribes stripped of their land and resources, subjected to forced assimilation, and placed under federal control. IRA provisions allowed tribes to draft their own constitutions, recognize traditional governments, and form official governing bodies to represent tribal interests. This gave tribes more control over their own laws, policies, and resources outside of federal control. The IRA also provided economic assistance to tribes, allowing them to use money from the federal government to build infrastructure, housing, and other development projects on their reservations. In the State of Washington, the IRA had a significant impact on tribes located in the region. The Yakama Nation, for example, used the resources granted by the Act to develop a wide range of projects, including a tribal school and health clinics. Similarly, the Swinomish Indian Tribal Community was able to gain the authority to develop and manage the Swinomish Indian Reservation, as well as full jurisdiction over its members. Overall, the Indian Reorganization Act of 1934 had a lasting and positive impact on Native American tribes throughout the United States, and especially in Washington. It provided economic and political support to tribes and allowed them to better manage their resources and law independently of federal control.

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What is the Indian Reorganization Act of 1934?

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