Its alternate name stems from the 160 acre pieces of land that individual Native Americans were purportedly given as a result.
Though it was later amended by the Burke Act of 1906, the original piece of legislation called for a 25 year statutory period and distinguished between orphans, single persons under eighteen, and heads of families. By accepting its terms those persons affected instantly became citizens. Though initiated in good faith the outcome proved disastrous and soon whites owned more than just the "surplus" land outlined therein. Its alternate name stems from the 160 acre pieces of land that individual Native Americans were purportedly given as a result. FTP identify this 1887 Act named for a Massachusetts Senator.
Though it was later amended by the Burke Act of 1906, the original piece of legislation called for a 25 year statutory period and distinguished between orphans, single persons under eighteen, and heads of families.
Dawes Severalty Act or General Allotment Act