For around a hundred and fifty years in this country, Native tribes have been legally considered nations within a nation. But in Maine, the situation is more complicated. Maine has restricted the rights of the tribes within its borders more than any other state.

And the amazing thing is, the tribes in Maine agreed to this. And pretty recently. 40 years ago, they signed a deal and surrendered a huge amount of power in exchange for money and land.

Right now the tribes in Maine are fighting for new laws that would restore their powers of sovereignty. And Maine state politicians and town officials are trying to stop them.

Produced by the Salt Institute for Documentary Studies. Brought to you in part by Bangor Savings Bank.