Indian Boarding Schools — Reading Comprehension

The U.S. government established Indian Boarding Schools in the late 1800s as part of a policy to force Native American children to leave their families and cultures and become more like white Americans. The government believed that Native cultures were a barrier to westward expansion and wanted to assimilate Native children into mainstream American society. This policy was both controversial and harmful, resulting in deep and lasting effects on Native communities.

In order to achieve this goal, the government passed laws that made it mandatory for Native children to attend these schools, often far from their homes. At boarding schools, children were not allowed to speak their own languages or practice their traditions. Instead, they were taught English, Christianity, and farming or industrial skills. One school leader wrote, "Kill the Indian in him, and save the man." This statement shows how the schools' main purpose was to erase Native identity and replace it with European-American ways.

Many Native families did not want their children to attend these schools. However, the government used force, threats, or promises of food and supplies to make families comply. For Native parents, sending their children away was a painful experience, and for the children, it was often traumatic. Some children ran away, while others struggled to adapt to the harsh rules and strict discipline.

Students at boarding schools had very different experiences. Some found opportunities to learn new skills or make friends, but most suffered from homesickness, harsh punishments, and a loss of cultural identity. Many children were punished for speaking their language or practicing their beliefs. Some students, however, resisted by secretly maintaining their traditions or teaching younger students about their heritage.

Over time, the consequences of Indian Boarding Schools became clear. Generations of Native Americans lost their languages, traditions, and family connections. This loss weakened Native communities and disrupted their ways of life. Historians and Native leaders have since called attention to the long-term effects of these schools, including trauma passed down through families.

Today, many Native communities are working to restore their languages and traditions. Some former boarding schools have become places for healing, where people can share their stories and learn about their heritage. The government has officially recognized the harm caused by these schools, but the process of restoration is ongoing.

Interesting Fact: In 1978, the Indian Child Welfare Act gave Native American families more control over their children’s education and care, helping to end the era of forced boarding schools.

Why were Indian Boarding Schools created?

What did students learn at the schools?

What happened in 1978?

How did most Native families feel?

Why were children punished?

What is a consequence of the schools?

Boarding schools respected Native cultures. True or false?

What does 'assimilate' mean?