Explore the intricate evolution of governance between Indigenous peoples and settler states. This critical study offers a long-term view of legal, political, and administrative relationships, examining how settler colonialism shaped spaces for Indigenous survival and autonomy in Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the United States. It delves into the promise and limits of modern Indigenous self-governance, revealing how historical complexities and liberal structures influenced pathways to self-determination. An essential read for scholars, students of law and history, policy analysts, and anyone seeking deep insights into comparative governance and Indigenous rights globally.