The significance of the Treaty of Fort Laramie, signed in 1851, was its recognition of Native American land rights and the establishment of boundaries for various tribes in the Great Plains. The treaty was intended to ensure peace between the U.S. government and Native American nations while facilitating westward expansion. However, many tribes were forcibly removed from their lands despite the treaty, leading to significant loss of territory and autonomy. The treaty's violation underscored the U.S. government's inconsistent commitment to honoring agreements with Native Americans, contributing to ongoing conflicts and injustices against indigenous peoples.