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First Nations in Saskatchewan facts for kids

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The First Nations in Saskatchewan are the original peoples who have lived on this land for thousands of years. They are part of the larger group of Native Canadians. In Saskatchewan, some of the main First Nations groups include the Cree, Assiniboine, Saulteaux, Lakota, Dene, and Dakota peoples. Long ago, the Atsina and Blackfoot peoples also lived here at different times.

First Nations communities are often organized into "band governments." These are like local governments for their communities. They manage their own affairs and lands, which are called reserve lands.

In 1992, something important happened. The Canadian government and the government of Saskatchewan signed a special agreement with the First Nations in the province. This agreement was about land claims. It meant that First Nations received money to buy back land. Because of this, about 761,000 acres of land have become reserve land. Many First Nations also use their settlement money to invest in towns and cities.

First Nations Communities and Treaties

First Nations in Saskatchewan are part of different treaties. These treaties are agreements made between First Nations and the Crown (the Canadian government) a long time ago. They set out rights and responsibilities for both sides. Many First Nations communities are linked to specific treaties, like Treaty 4, Treaty 5, Treaty 6, Treaty 8, and Treaty 10. These treaties cover different parts of Saskatchewan.

Treaty 4 Nations

Treaty 4 was signed in 1874 and covers a large area of southern Saskatchewan. Many First Nations communities are part of this treaty. Some of these include:

Treaty 5 Nations

Treaty 5 was signed in 1875 and covers parts of eastern Saskatchewan. Communities under Treaty 5 include:

Treaty 6 Nations

Treaty 6 was signed in 1876 and covers a large central area of Saskatchewan. Many First Nations communities are part of this treaty. Some of these include:

Treaty 8 Nations

Treaty 8 was signed in 1899 and covers parts of northern Saskatchewan. Communities under Treaty 8 include:

Treaty 10 Nations

Treaty 10 was signed in 1906 and covers parts of northern Saskatchewan. Communities under Treaty 10 include:

  • Birch Narrows Dene Nation
  • Buffalo River Dene Nation
  • Canoe Lake First Nation
  • English River First Nation
  • Hatchet Lake Dene Nation
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