The author unravels the historical record to clarify the impasse in negotiations between Aboriginal peoples and the state in Canada. He considers the assimilationist policy assumptions of the imperial era and more recent government initiatives.

This investigation stakes out a middle ground with its support for constitutional and institutional arrangements which will simultaneously recognize Aboriginal difference and reinforce a solidarity which binds all together in common citizenship. Useful reading for those in political science, history, Native studies, public administration and law, this should also appeal to the general public interested in one of the most important and complex issues on the Canadian agenda.