Treaty 7 was signed on September 22, 1877, between representatives of the Blackfoot Confederacy, including the Siksika (Blackfoot), Kainai (Blood), and Piikani (Piegan) nations, the Stoney-Nakoda, and the Tsuut’ina (Sarcee) on one side, and the government of Canada on the other.

Signed at the Blackfoot Crossing of the Bow River, Fort Macleod, Treaty 7 was negotiated to address the needs and concerns of all the people who had an interest in the land. The Canadian government was interested in acquiring land through peaceful means if possible.

The Blackfoot tribes dominated the area; however, they faced several challenges, including an incursion of Cree from the north, whiskey traders from the south, and the decimation of bison herds so central to the well being of their societies.

Many of the problems they faced were imposed upon them by others. Still, they were suffering, and the government was seen as a possible ally to help them overcome these difficulties. now.