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• Indian Gaming ( January 1999 )
  Douglas Roger Nash of University of Idaho School of Law, Staff Access

  Gambling, in a variety of forms, has long been an important part of American Indian culture and tradition. One ancient game called "stick game" among northwest tribes has variations among most tribes and is still played at tribal gatherings. Horse and foot races were an important focus of traditional gambling activity. Today, gambling provides many tribes with revenue for essential governmental services. This article provides an overview of the development of Indian gaming law.The Indian Gaming Regulatory Act (IGRA), passed by Congress in 1988, is the centerpiece of Indian gaming law today. Events leading to and following the passage of this act, as well as the act itself, constitute the body of Indian gaming law.