Aboriginal Title
/əˈbɒrɪdʒɪnəl ˈtaɪtəl/
Definitions
- (n.) The recognized legal right of Indigenous peoples to their ancestral lands, established by their traditional use and occupancy prior to colonization, enforceable against third parties and the government.
The court upheld the aboriginal title of the tribe to the disputed territory.
Forms
- aboriginal title
Related terms
See also
Commentary
Aboriginal title is a sui generis property right distinct from common law estates, requiring careful differentiation from statutory land claims and ensuring recognition of Indigenous customary use.
This glossary is for general informational and educational purposes only. Definitions are jurisdiction-agnostic but reflect terminology and concepts primarily drawn from English and American legal traditions. Nothing herein constitutes legal advice or creates a lawyer-client relationship. Users should consult qualified counsel for advice on specific matters or jurisdictions.