Answer:
Reservations are governed through a combination of tribal sovereignty and federal oversight. Tribal governments may manage their affairs, but their autonomy has been affected by historical legislation and financial dependencies. Recent laws like the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act have provided economic opportunities, yet also raised sovereignty concerns.
Step-by-step explanation:
The governance of Native American reservations consists of complex relationships between tribal governments and the federal government. Originally recognized as 'domestic sovereign nations,' and later as 'dependent wards,' Native American tribes have endured varying levels of autonomy. Tribal governments have the authority to tax, pass laws, and maintain their courts, operating somewhat like a 'nation within a nation.'
The legal standing of tribes has been significantly affected by historic Supreme Court rulings, such as the Marshall court trilogy, which placed them under federal administration. However, over time, legislation like the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act of 1975 allowed tribes to assume control over programs such as education and resource management, with funding provided by the federal government. Despite this, tribes have often faced challenges in exercising full sovereignty due to external controls and financial limitations.
In recent history, the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act of 1988 provided tribes a means to generate revenue through the establishment of casinos. Although this has led to economic improvements for some tribes, the requirement to compact with states has raised issues regarding the level of tribal sovereignty.
Despite the improvements and attempts at self-governance, many Native American tribes continue to contend with the consequences of past policies and the intricacies of their political and legal status within the United States.