Abstract: | This article discusses the concept of political recognition(both federal and state) of Indian tribes; explains the differencebetween administrative and legislative recognition; examineswho is or should be empowered to extendfederal recognition,the Congress or the executive branch; discusses the major factorsthat have compelled the Lumbees to seek federal recognitionwhen they were already acknowledged by the state; and examinesthe major factors that have precluded them from securing completefederal recognition. |