What Are The Specific Archival Records And Primary Sources That Can Provide Insight Into The Role Of The Office Of Indian Affairs' Inspectorate In Monitoring And Enforcing The Terms Of The Fort Laramie Treaty Of 1851, Particularly In Regards To The Allowance Of Military Roads And Forts On Native American Lands, And Are These Records Accessible To Researchers At The National Archives In Washington D.C. Or Are They Scattered Across Regional Archives And Libraries?
To research the role of the Office of Indian Affairs' Inspectorate in enforcing the Fort Laramie Treaty of 1851, particularly regarding military roads and forts, follow this structured approach:
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National Archives, Washington D.C.
- Record Group 75 (Bureau of Indian Affairs): Examine correspondence (letters sent and received) and inspection reports from the Inspectorate. These documents may detail discussions and enforcement of treaty terms.
- Military Records: Investigate Record Group 94 (Adjutant General's Office) and RG 92 (Quartermaster General) for records on military installations and interactions with Native lands.
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Regional Archives
- National Archives at Kansas City: Explore records related to Central Plains tribes.
- National Archives at Denver: Look for Rocky Mountain region records, including local correspondence and reports.
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Online and Published Resources
- National Archives Catalog: Utilize the online platform to search for digitized records and finding aids.
- Library of Congress: Check for manuscripts, newspapers, and publications that provide contemporary accounts.
- Academic Libraries: Access historical monographs and journals with Native American studies focus.
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Secondary Sources and Expert Consultation
- Review historical literature for context and leads on primary sources.
- Consult with archivists, historians, and experts for targeted guidance.
By systematically exploring these avenues, you can gather a comprehensive understanding of the Inspectorate's role in treaty enforcement, utilizing both federal and regional records.