Creation of a nation: The development of the Tohono O'odham political culture, 1900–1937

Peter MacMillan Booth, Purdue University

Abstract

This dissertation analyzes the creation of the Papago Tribe out of several independent Tohono O'odham pueblos or village-complexes. Specifically, the study looks at the development of O'odham political culture from the turn-of-the-century, through 1916 when the reservation was established, to 1937 when the O'odham organized a tribal government. Going into the twentieth century, the desert world of the O'odham had remained relatively isolated. Outside economic forces as well as the Office of Indian Affairs began to have a significant influence on the O'odham after 1900. As the world around them changed, many of the Desert People tried to preserve their Himdag (way of life) by defending the integrity of the individual village communities. As the older ways faltered, the O'odham adopted political and cultural tools from the larger Milga:n (American) and Ju:kam (Mexican) societies. On several occasions, in defense of village autonomy, various O'odham pueblos formed such groups as the Good Government League, Committee of Seven, and the League of Papago Chiefs. These, however, enjoyed only limited success. The O'odham finally established a political structure that insured the pueblos' survival by accepting the Indian Reorganization Act but shaping it to fit their situation. The resulting constitution and government led to the creation of the Papago Tribe, which evolved into the Tohono O'odham Nation. This creation of nationhood was done less to create tribal political structure than it was to preserve the autonomy of the individual O'odham village-complexes.

Degree

Ph.D.

Advisors

Parman, Purdue University.

Subject Area

American history

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