41.   Without the land and benefits that come with federal recognition, it will be difficult for the Samish to survive as a people.

42.   A controversial measure granting federal recognition to Native Hawaiians was approved by a Senate committee Thursday.

43.   A nearly forgotten American Indian tribe from northern California hopes a new museum exhibit will help raise awareness of its history and boost its bid for federal recognition.

44.   City officials there generally favor federal recognition for the Paugussetts because of the economic benefits a casino could bring to the city.

45.   Federal recognition entitles tribes to federal benefits and to negotiate with states to build casinos.

46.   Federal recognition makes tribes eligible for several federal assistance programs and classifies them as sovereign nations.

47.   In California, Wisconsin, Michigan and Alabama, variations of such claims for land, federal recognition or both are ongoing with tribes seeking to build casinos.

48.   In Connecticut, the Golden Hill Paugusett, Schaghticoke, Eastern Pequot and Paucatuck Eastern tribes are seeking federal recognition.

49.   More than a dozen Indian groups in Connecticut are seeking federal recognition, which would allow them to open casinos.

50.   Once a tribe gets federal recognition, it can obtain rights to build a casino.