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Wolf v. Hitchcock
1. In 1854, United States Senator Sam Houston said the following in describing treaties with the Indians: "As long as water flows, or grass grows upon the earth, or the sun rises to show your pathway, or you kindle your camp fires, so long shall you be protected by this Government, and never again be removed from your present habitations." Did this prove true?
2. So the holding of the case is basically that the judiciary has no power to compel Congress to honor its treaties, at least with the Indian tribes and that this is true even if individual or tribal rights are invaded. Is this a good rule? Think hard before you answer. Notwithstanding the racism that ensnares the opinions, might the court be right? Think about Carter v. Goldwater (effective revocation of treaty with Republic of China (Taiwan)?)
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