American Indian Reservations

American Indian reservations are designated areas of land set aside by the U.S. government for Native American tribes. These reservations function as semi-sovereign jurisdictions, where tribes have a degree of self-governance, including their own laws and policies. However, the federal government retains certain authorities, and residents are often U.S. citizens with the rights and responsibilities that come with that status. Reservations are central to preserving Native cultures, traditions, and land rights, but many also face economic and social challenges. They represent a complex mix of self-determination and federal oversight, reflecting the historical and ongoing relationship between tribes and the U.S. government.