Through many years of efforts to terminate tribal governments, the Chickasaw people remained steadfast and hopeful to preserve their government's independence. In 1975, the U.S. passed the Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act, which reasserted the Chickasaw Nation's sovereignty. In 1983, the Chickasaw people ratified an updated constitution with three branches of government and the right to elect their leaders. Tribal leaders have since forged a path of progress and prosperity with the sole mission of enhancing the quality of life for the Chickasaw people.