Treaties between the United States of America and the Potawatomi People

While treaties between the U.S. Government and American Indian Tribes ended in 1871, those historical documents are still viewed as legally binding agreements establishing the relationship between sovereign nations. These treaties are seen as fundamental documents that outline rights, responsibilities, and obligations for both parties. They cover various aspects such as land rights, resource management, self-governance, and cultural preservation.

In contemporary times, there is a growing recognition of the importance of upholding treaty rights and honoring the sovereignty of Native American tribes. This includes respecting tribal self-determination, promoting economic development on reservations, and addressing historical injustices. However, challenges remain, including issues related to treaty interpretation, enforcement, and ensuring equitable treatment of tribes in legal and political contexts. Overall, the evolving view emphasizes the significance of treaties as foundational to the relationship between the U.S. Government and Native American tribes in the modern era.

To see more on the history of treaties follow THIS LINK answering the question, “Does the United States still make treaties with Indian tribes?”

To see the treaties between the Potawatomi and the U.S government follow THIS LINK.

The United States ratified approximately 40 treaties with the Potawatomi tribe between 1789 and 1867. These treaties involved land cessions, the establishment of reservations, and agreements on trade and peace. The Potawatomi people, who were originally located in the Great Lakes region, experienced numerous displacements and land losses due to these treaties, which ultimately led to their forced relocation during the 1830s as part of the broader policy of Indian removal.

To find an accurate list of treaties ratified between the United States and the Potawatomi Tribe, you can explore the following resources:

1. Library of Congress: Indian Affairs: Laws and Treaties

• This comprehensive resource, maintained by the Library of Congress, provides a collection of treaties between the U.S. government and Native American tribes.
• Link: Indian Affairs: Laws and Treaties
• Search for “Potawatomi” to find treaties specific to the tribe.

2. National Archives: American Indian Treaties

• The National Archives has a dedicated section for treaties with Native American tribes, including the Potawatomi.
• Link: National Archives American Indian Treaties

3. Oklahoma State University’s Digital Collection

• OSU has digitized “Indian Affairs: Laws and Treaties” by Charles J. Kappler, a primary source with all ratified treaties. Volume II is dedicated to treaties, and you can search for Potawatomi-related agreements.
• Link: Kappler’s Indian Affairs: Laws and Treaties
• Link: Potawatomi Treaties

4. Native American Rights Fund (NARF): Tribal Treaties Database

• NARF hosts a database where you can search for Potawatomi treaties by name, date, or keyword.
• Link: How To Find Treaties

These sources should help to identify and verify the number of treaties between the Potawatomi tribe and the U.S.