Reviews historical trends in U.S. philanthropy toward Native Americans, including the "missionary and chief making era" (1819-1940s), "political leadership era" (1940s-1960s), "issues and rights era" (1960s), "institutional era" (1970s), "self-sufficiency era" (1980s), and present day efforts. Highlights obstacles that prevented the success of previous philanthropic efforts. (MAB)