Native Languages: Loss and Revival — Reading Comprehension

More than 300 distinct indigenous languages were once spoken across what is now the United States. These languages formed the foundation of diverse Native societies, each with unique traditions, stories, and connections to the land. Over the past two centuries, however, many of these languages have faced severe decline or even extinction. The loss of Native languages did not happen by accident. Instead, it was the result of deliberate policies, social pressures, and changing circumstances that reshaped Native life.

The U.S. government created policies designed to assimilate Native peoples into mainstream American society. In the 1800s and early 1900s, Native children were taken from their families and sent to boarding schools. At these schools, officials forced students to speak only English. They were often punished for using their own languages. One 1890 government report stated, "It is necessary to have the Indian youth entirely separated from the influences of the family, and the tribe, so that they may in time adopt the habits and language of civilized life." This primary source reveals the government's belief that abandoning Native languages was essential for what they called 'civilization.'

From the perspective of Native families, these policies led to deep trauma. Many elders could no longer teach their children or grandchildren in their ancestral language. The loss of language also meant the loss of traditional oral histories, ceremonies, and knowledge. For some communities, language loss threatened their very identity. Still, not all Native people accepted this situation without resistance. Some secretly maintained their languages at home, while others sought ways to preserve key words and stories.

By the mid-1900s, linguists and Native leaders began to document the crisis. Some researchers, such as Franz Boas and Edward Sapir, worked to record Native languages before they disappeared. However, their work was sometimes criticized for focusing more on "saving" languages than supporting Native-led efforts. There was also debate about whether language loss was inevitable, or if revitalization was possible. These contradictions showed that the issue was complex and tied to power, culture, and sovereignty.

In recent decades, many Native communities have launched language revival programs. These efforts include language immersion schools, summer camps, and digital resources. For example, the Cherokee Nation has developed mobile apps and classes to help younger generations learn Cherokee. Some tribal governments have declared their languages as official, protecting them through law. These solutions are not without challenges—there are limited fluent speakers, especially among the youth, and funding can be uncertain. Nevertheless, these programs show determination and hope.

The revival of Native languages is not just about words. It is about restoring culture, pride, and self-determination. Language connects people to ancestors and to the land. While some Americans once believed that "progress" meant replacing Native languages with English, many now recognize the importance of language diversity for the nation's history and future. The struggle to reclaim and protect Native languages continues, and its outcome will shape both Native and American identities.

Interesting Fact: The Navajo language, once banned in schools, was used by "Code Talkers" during World War II to send secret messages that enemies could not decode.

What was a main cause of language loss?

How many Native languages were once spoken?

What did the 1890 report support?

Why did families feel trauma?

What is language revitalization?

Who started language revival programs?

True or False: Boarding schools encouraged Native languages.

What does 'sovereignty' mean?