For the Assiniboine, Cypress Hills was a place of great spiritual importance. In 1881, the Canadian government changed their mind about allowing reserves here as was promised by the treaties. This decision was made without the knowledge of the Assiniboine. Their story along with that of the Cree challenge the images of an honourable and benevolent government. The government tried to drive the First Nations people from this area by starving them into submission and changing their diet.