PLSC 2231 Lecture Notes - First Nations, Metis, and Indigenous Peoples

These flashcards cover key terms and concepts from the lecture about First Nations, Metis, and Indigenous Peoples in Canada.

First Nations

A group for whom lands have been set apart, typically recognized as Bands or on Reserves.

Indian Act

Federal law established in 1876 that codified the legal status of 'status Indians' and their rights.

Treaties

Agreements made between the Crown and Indigenous groups that define rights and responsibilities.

Indigenous Peoples

Term referring to First Peoples, including First Nations, Inuit, and Métis.

Métis

A person of mixed First Nation and European descent.

Terra Nullius

The legal concept that land was unowned when European settlers arrived.

1969 White Paper

A proposal by the Government of Canada to eliminate the Indian Act and Indian status.

Land Claims

Legal claims filed by Indigenous groups to assert ownership over traditional territories.

Self-Governance

The ability of First Nations to manage their own lands and affairs without external interference.

Court Litigation

Legal proceedings in courts to address Indigenous rights and claims.

Idle No More

A grassroots movement advocating for Indigenous rights in response to government legislation.

Nisga’a Final Agreement

The first modern treaty signed in Canada in 1999, recognizing Indigenous land rights.

Crown-Indigenous Relations

The relationship framework between the Canadian government and Indigenous peoples.

Cultural Genocide

The systematic destruction of the culture of a people, often through policies of assimilation.

Status Indians

Individuals recognized under the Indian Act as having specific legal rights and identity.