Tribal governments are the political systems established by indigenous tribes to govern their communities. These governments operate independently and have the authority to create laws, manage resources, and provide services to their members. They often reflect the unique cultural and social practices of the tribe, allowing for self-determination and preservation of traditions.
In the United States, tribal governments are recognized as sovereign entities, meaning they have the power to govern themselves without interference from state or federal authorities. This sovereignty is rooted in treaties and agreements made with the federal government, which acknowledge the rights of tribes like the Cherokee or Navajo to self-govern.