Arizona Federally Recognized Tribes Facts Worksheet for 14-Year-Olds — Middle School Social Studies & Native American History

Instructions

Read through each section carefully and answer the questions to the best of your ability. This worksheet will test your knowledge about the diverse and sovereign tribal nations located within Arizona.

Part 1: Fill in the Blanks

Complete the sentences below using the word bank. Some words may not be used.

1. There are __________________ federally recognized Native American tribes in Arizona.
2. The __________________ Nation is the largest tribe in the United States by land area and is located across three states, including Arizona.
3. During World War II, members of the Navajo Nation served as __________________, using their complex language to transmit secret military messages.
4. The __________________ Tribe's reservation is unique because it is completely surrounded by the lands of the Navajo Nation.
5. Tribal __________________ is the inherent right of tribes to govern themselves and their lands.

Part 2: Match the Tribe to the Fact

Draw a line or write the correct letter in the blank to match the tribal nation with its unique fact.

Part 3: Understanding Key Concepts

In your own words, explain the meaning of the following terms.

1. Federally Recognized Tribe:

2. Reservation:

Part 4: Critical Thinking

Answer the following question in a few complete sentences. Your response should show thoughtful consideration of the topic.

Many of Arizona's tribal communities are located in rural, and sometimes remote, parts of the state. What are two potential challenges this might create for a tribal nation, and what is one potential benefit of having land that is geographically separate from large cities?

Answer Key

Part 1: Fill in the Blanks

1. There are 22 federally recognized Native American tribes in Arizona.
2. The Navajo Nation is the largest tribe in the United States by land area and is located across three states, including Arizona.
3. During World War II, members of the Navajo Nation served as Code Talkers, using their complex language to transmit secret military messages.
4. The Hopi Tribe's reservation is unique because it is completely surrounded by the lands of the Navajo Nation.
5. Tribal Sovereignty is the inherent right of tribes to govern themselves and their lands.

Part 2: Match the Tribe to the Fact

1. C - Tohono O'odham Nation
2. A - White Mountain Apache Tribe
3. D - Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community
4. B - Hualapai Tribe

Part 3: Understanding Key Concepts

(Note: Student answers should be similar to the definitions below.)

1. Federally Recognized Tribe: This refers to a Native American tribe that the United States government officially recognizes as a sovereign nation with a government-to-government relationship. This recognition entitles them to certain rights, services, and benefits.
2. Reservation: An area of land managed by a federally recognized Native American tribe under the U.S. Bureau of Indian Affairs. These lands were set aside for tribes by treaty, executive order, or other legal means.

Part 4: Critical Thinking

(Note: Answers will vary. A good answer will demonstrate understanding of the concepts.)

Example Answer:
Two potential challenges of being in a remote location could be limited access to economic opportunities (like jobs found in big cities) and less access to resources like specialized healthcare or higher education facilities. A potential benefit of having geographically separate land is that it can make it easier to preserve unique cultural traditions, languages, and a strong sense of community away from the constant influence of major urban centers. It also allows the tribe to manage their natural resources and environment according to their own values.