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

And here’s the kicker… the tribes signed off on this agreement.

In this episode of Sovereign we ask: Why? After centuries of native tribes in Maine historically getting screwed by bad deals, and broken promises, subjected to racism and violence, why would these tribes give up a legitimate claim to their land?

Brought to you in part by Bangor Savings Banks