Promotional Information

In 1824, with no Congressional authorization, War Secretary John C. Calhoun established the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA). In the 185 years since-the last 40 years with Native Americans at its head-the BIA has endured as witness to and shaper of U.S.-Indian relations, often caught between enforcing government policy and serving the Native American population.

About the Author

Donald L. Fixico is distinguished foundation professor of history and affiliate faculty in American Indian Studies at Arizona State University, Tempe.