Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act

The Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act (ANCSA), enacted in 1971, was a landmark law aimed at resolving land claims by Alaska Natives. It settled disputes by creating regional and village corporations that received land and financial compensation, totaling about $962 million. The act aimed to promote economic self-sufficiency for Indigenous communities while fostering development in Alaska. Additionally, ANCSA helped recognize and affirm the rights of Alaska Natives, allowing them to manage their resources and participate in the economy, thus addressing historical injustices related to land ownership and usage.