Native Americans occupy an anomalous position in the United States. Federally recognized tribes each are separate sovereigns within the federal system. States hold no authority over them except what Congress may give them. Their enrolled members are dual citizens of the United States and of their tribal nation. By virtue of the Constitution and the federal government’s responsibilities towards them, it means the government can do things for and to Native Americans that it cannot do to any other citizen. This seminar will examine this situation in both historical and contemporary context.

This program will be conducted as a conversation, utilizing primary source documents as the only readings, and with the Professor facilitating the conversation, instead of lecturing or presenting.