American Indian Claims Commission

The American Indian Claims Commission was established in 1946 to resolve grievances by Native American tribes against the U.S. government for breaches of treaties, unfair land cessions, or negligence. Its purpose was to hear tribes’ claims, evaluate their validity, and provide compensation or land awards when justified. The commission aimed to address historical injustices and promote fair resolution without prolonged litigation. It operated until 1978, after which many unresolved claims were managed through other legal channels. Overall, it sought to recognize and rectify past wrongs inflicted upon Native tribes by the government.