United States v. Sandoval, 231 U.S. 28 (1913)
The case of United States v. Sandoval is a foundational Supreme Court decision that redefined the perception and legal standing of tribal sovereignty within the United States.
Does Congress possess the authority to regulate lands held by the Pueblo Indians as 'Indian country' under federal law, thus overriding state jurisdiction?
Under the U.S. Constitution, Congress has plenary power to regulate and protect Native American tribes, including determining their territorial sovereignty as 'Indian country' which is subject to federal jurisdiction.
The Supreme Court held that Congress does have the authority to classify Pueblo lands as 'Indian country' and to regulate them accordingly, asserting federal jurisdiction over state authority.
The significance of United States v. Sandoval cannot be understated, as it established a jurisprudential precedent for Congress's broad authority over Native American tribes. This case clarified that 'Indian country' extends beyond traditional tribal lands to include areas like Pueblo territories, which are entitled to federal protections. For law students, Sandoval is an essential study in understanding the breadth of Congressional power in Indian affairs, particularly in confronting issues around the sovereignty and autonomy of tribal entities.