Minnesota
The Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Tribe is an equally well-known federal recognized tribe in the United States having been recognized in 1969 as an Indian Tribe. The members of this tribe are the descendants of the Mdewakanton Dakota people who used to live in the banks of the lower Minnesota River. The tribe has a rich and colorful history. The Minnesota and the Mississippi River Valleys were their very first habitats for centuries now. They have maintained their culture that involves the utilization of the river and its nearby resources. Their ancestors have taught them to always keep their heritage flaming and to never forget their roots. In 1805, several treaties took away the natural habitat of the tribe. The treaties took away their homeland and even went against their sovereignty. At first, the tribe tolerated these harsh acts but later on, they battled against the government and fought their way to who they are today. However, it was not an easy ride for in 1862, the war ended with a hideous and morbid crime having 38 Dakota hanged in Mankato. The aftermath of this urged the tribesmen to eagerly fight and fight for their lives, their culture and their homeland. Later on, the United States Congress decided to remove Dakota from Minnesota. The government failed to recognize them as their own tribe and even had their people sent to different places. Finally, in 1969, the Bureau of Indian Affairs gave the ample recognition to the Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Tribe. At first, they have a rough time in handling their own government and economy. There were poor infrastructures, and inadequate housing units. In an attempt to make life better, the Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Tribe invested on health care and educational services. In the 1970’s, the tribe had to depend on the food subsidies thriving from low paying jobs and lesser opportunities for growth. In 1982, the tribe finally found its strength in the business industry thanks to Chairman Norman Crooks who pursued high-stakes bingo in Florida. Since then, opportunities came on hand that the Little Six Bingo Palace was opened in October 16. Tourism was at its all time high thanks to the facilities added such as gaming machines and gaming rooms. The Mystic Lake Casino soon opened in 1992 providing more jobs and opportunities. The Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Tribe’s transformation paved way for becoming one of the most successful tribes in the United States. The Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Tribe today is very much different from what it was before. Sports facilities, malls, convenience stores, travel agencies banks have now grown in the area. The Mystic Lake Casino Hotel is now known to be one of the largest and most successful Indian-owned casinos in the whole of the United States. It is also one of the top tourist attractions in the Upper Midwest.
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