The words "confederate" and "confederacy" refer to the concept of a confederation or a group of states or entities that are united for a common purpose.
In this context, the words are used to describe the relationship between different Native American tribes and the federal government, as well as the relationship between different states and the federal government.
The use of these words reflects the complex and often contentious relationship between different groups and the federal government, and the ongoing struggle for recognition of Native American civil rights and sovereignty.