The Treaty of Fort Laramie (1851) was an agreement between the United States government and various Native American tribes, including the Lakota, Cheyenne, and Arapaho. The treaty aimed to establish peace and define territorial boundaries for the tribes, ensuring safe passage for settlers traveling westward. In exchange, the tribes agreed to allow the U.S. to build roads and forts in their territories. The treaty recognized specific lands for each tribe, but it was often violated by settlers and the government. This led to increased tensions and conflicts, ultimately contributing to the decline of Native American sovereignty in the region.