Native systems of governance have faced intense challenges since European explorers first landed on these shores. While America’s founding fathers took inspiration from Indigenous governments, the relationship between First Nations and the U.S. Government has been defined by fundamental conflicts over sovereignty, territory, citizenship, and individual rights.
Watch the Wisconsin Academy’s Roots of Democracy Series discussion with a panel of First Nations scholars who explore how Indigenous governments have responded to these challenges and the obstacles to sovereignty that still remain in place.
View a transcript of the recording
Thanks to Academy donors, members, and the following Roots of Democracy series sponsors and partners:
The Roots of Democracy series is funded in part by a grant from Wisconsin Humanities, with funds from the National Endowment for the Humanities and the State of Wisconsin. Any views, findings, conclusions or recommendations expressed in this project do not necessarily represent those of the National Endowment for the Humanities. Wisconsin Humanities strengthens the roots of community life through educational and cultural programs that inspire civic participation and individual imagination.
