| The Indian Reorganization Act, passed in 1934 during the Franklin Roosevelt administration, attempted to give Native Americans increased control over their lives. Under the program, Native American groups could adopt a constitution and establish a tribal council. Then they were able to administer their own lands, set up businesses, and engage in other tribal development projects. The Montana Flathead were one of the tribal groups that adopted a constitution. This photograph shows the Flathead delegation at the ceremony signing the constitution. Also shown are Secretary of the Interior Harold Ickes, seated at the center, and John Collier, head of the Bureau of Indian Affairs, who developed the legislation. |
Hotmail
Messenger
My MSN
MSN Directory
