It is reported that American Indians in the 1960's lacked material resources and a sense of being a part of the larger society. These problems date back considerably in history and have been influenced by social, economic, and cultural factors. In an effort to point out the poverty conditions of this minority group, information relative to demographic characteristics, family income, education, health conditions, and occupational distribution is presented. Geographic distribution of rural nonreservation Indian groups, case studies in Oklahoma, and the existing dilemma faced by rural Indian youth are considered. A concluding section points out some hopeful developments which are emerging--for example, more Indian youth are enrolled in school each year, and more are going to college or technical school. An appendix contains numerous tables and statistical data. (SW)