American Indian Treaties:
A Simulation on Conflict, Power, and National Sovereignty
By Lisa Spengler

Summary

The U. S. government and American Indians have along, muddle history, full of promises made and broken. Treaty negotiations serve as an excellent example of government and Indian motivations and attitudes as well as an introduction to the complexities involved in the treaty process.

Before the 20^th century, the negotiation of treaties with Indian nations was an integral part of U. S. federal policy. The government's primary motivation was to acquire tribal lands and place Indians on smaller reservations whereas that of the various First Nations varied, so this lesson can be adapted to fit many different regions or areas of interest.

Subject: History (United States History and World) and Social Studies

Grade-level: Middle School, High School

Time: 2 weeks

Objectives:

• Knowledge

Students will:

1.     Understand the basic historical concepts of this time period.

2.     Understand sovereignty and power.

3.     Recognize the differences in the positions of the United |States government and Indian Nations.

4.     Understand the treaty process, and its difficulties.

• Skills

Students will:

1.     Actively participate in the treaty simulation, taking on an assigned role.

2.     Write a reflection of their experience.

• Values

Students will:

1.     Appreciate the plight of American Indians.

2.     Understand the U.S. governments role in the changing lives and culture of American Indians.

3.     Understand the difficulties, conflicts and compromises in the treaty process.