Indian Reorganization Act (United States)

The Indian Reorganization Act (IRA) of 1934 was a U.S. law aimed at reversing the damage caused by previous policies that sought to assimilate Native Americans into mainstream culture. It restored some self-governance to tribal nations and encouraged them to form their own governments. The IRA also provided for the preservation of Native American cultures and languages and allowed tribes to gain control over their lands, which had been previously taken. This act marked a significant shift toward recognizing the rights and autonomy of Native American tribes in the United States.