How is the Penobscot tribe organized?
The Penobscots live on a reservation, which is land that belongs to them and is under their control. The Penobscot Nation has its own government, laws, police, and services, just like a small country. However, the Penobscots are also US citizens and must obey American law. The leader of the tribe is called sagama in the Penobscot language, which is translated “governor” or “chief” in English. In the past the sagama was chosen by tribal councilmembers, but today he or she is elected by all the people. The Penobscots also have a representative in the Maine legislature, but she cannot vote. What language do Penobscot Indians speak? Penobscot people speak English. In the past, they spoke their native Abenaki-Penobscot language. It has this long name because two tribes, the Abenakis and the Penobscots, speak the same language with different accents–just like Americans and Canadians both speak English. Unfortunately, no Penobscot Indian people are fluent in this language anymore. However, t
