The Passamaquoddy In the early 1960s the Passamaquoddy tribe was at an all time low, but they were about to begin a two decade battle with the State of Maine which would forever change themselves, their relationship between the United States Government, and all Native American tribes. Its conclusion would bring a new wealth, and a new pride to the native peoples of Maine. But with it came unexpected troubles and dissension which struck to the heart of what it means to be Indian. Preceding these events, in the late 18th century, Congress created the Nonintercourse Act, declaring that any transfer of land from Indians to non-Indians had to be approved by Congress. Between 1794 and 1833, title to most of the land of the Passamaquoddy was transferred o the state of Maine and individuals. Those transfers, encompassing two-thirds of the state of Maine, were never approved by the U.S. Congress, and were therefore illegitimate. This was the foundation for the Maine Indian Land Claims Case of ...