The significance of the Treaty of Fort Laramie in U.S. history lies in its acknowledgment of Native American sovereignty and the recognition of their land rights. Signed in 1851, the treaty aimed to establish peace between the U.S. government and several Native American tribes, delineating territories for each party. However, the terms were largely violated by the U.S. government as westward expansion continued, leading to further conflicts and loss of land for Native Americans. The Treaty of Fort Laramie highlights the complexities of U.S.-Native American relations and illustrates how treaties were often disregarded, impacting the rights and cultures of native peoples.