OKLAHOMA
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Oklahoma Historical Chronology - Resources

In the 19th century, Native Americans began forming their own governments to adapt to the imposed “civilized” lifestyle.  In Indian Territory, some tribes built Capitol buildings, which were used in that capacity until Oklahoma became a state in 1907.  Following statehood, some of these buildings were used as county courthouses.  A number of these structures are still standing and in use today.  We have created this section to recognize the importance of all tribal Capitol buildings in addition to the structures that served as county courthouses. 

There are 573 federally recognized tribal governments and 326 Indian reservations in the United States today.  These tribes possess the right to form their own governments, to enforce laws (both civil and criminal) within their lands, to tax, to establish requirements for membership, to license and regulate activities, to zone, and to exclude persons from tribal territories.  Limitations on tribal powers to self-government include the same limitations applicible to states; for example, neither tribes nor states have the power to make war, engage in foreign relations, or coin/print money.  In addition, there are a number of tribes that are recognized by individual states, but not the federal government.  The rights and benefits associated with state recognition vary from state to state.