Supreme Court Justice Stephen Breyer's Complicated Indian Law Legacy

The video features Justice Stephen Breyer discussing the significance of Cherokee Nation cases in the Supreme Court during the 1830s, which tested the court's ability to enforce American law. Matthew Fletcher, a law professor, comments on Breyer's mixed legacy in Indian law cases. The video also covers controversial cases like Adoptive Couple vs. Baby Girl and recent shifts in the Supreme Court's approach to Indian law, highlighting the influence of Justices Neil Gorsuch and Sonia Sotomayor.

What was the significance of the Cherokee Nation cases in the 1830s?

• They resulted in the Yazoo Land's case.

• They were responsible for the Trail of Tears.

• They led to the Civil War.

• They established the Supreme Court's power to enforce treaties.

How is Justice Breyer's record on Indian law cases described?

• Always in favor of tribal interests.

• Consistently in favor of tribal interests.

• Always against tribal interests.

• Inconsistent, with some decisions favoring and others opposing tribal interests.

Which case involved the Indian Child Welfare Act and was controversial?

• Oklahoma Tax Commission vs. Chickasaw Nation

• Adoptive Couple vs. Baby Girl

• United States vs. Lara

• McGirt vs. Oklahoma

What was the central question in United States vs. Lara?

• Whether tribal citizens are exempt from state taxes.

• If Indian tribes have the right to prosecute non-citizens.

• The enforcement of treaties as the supreme law of the land.

• The legality of the Indian Child Welfare Act.

Which Justice is noted for taking Indian law seriously?

• Justice Stephen Breyer

• Justice Clarence Thomas

• Justice Neil Gorsuch

• Justice Sonia Sotomayor