American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) Practice Exam

What did the Indian Reorganization Act of 1934 allow Native Americans to do?

1. Sell their land

2. Adopt a constitution and organize for their common welfare

3. Move to urban areas

4. Participate in federal elections

The correct answer is: Adopt a constitution and organize for their common welfare

The Indian Reorganization Act of 1934 was a significant piece of legislation aimed at reversing some of the damage caused by previous policy decisions that sought to assimilate Native Americans and break up tribal lands. One of the core features of this Act was to allow Native American tribes to adopt their own constitutions and establish self-governing bodies, which was a pivotal step towards self-determination. This autonomy enabled tribes to manage their internal affairs and pursue their welfare collectively, fostering a renewed sense of identity and community governance among Native Americans. The Act also aimed to restore some degree of sovereignty to tribes that had been undermined in the preceding decades. It encouraged the development of tribal governments that reflected the traditional culture and values of Native peoples. In this way, the Indian Reorganization Act marked a turning point in the relationship between Native American tribes and the federal government, acknowledging the importance of tribal governance in addressing the needs and rights of Indigenous peoples.