Question

The federal government pursued a “civilization” policy at the beginning of the 1800s. Which of the following statements best describes this policy of civilization?

A.
Tribes should be removed completely from Eastern lands.
B.
Tribes should keep their own traditions and beliefs.
C.
Tribes should form their own isolated communities away from white settlers.
D.
Tribes should incorporate white traditions and customs into their culture.

Answer 1

D. Tribes should incorporate white traditions and customs into their culture is the correct answer.

Step-by-step explanation:

The civilization policy was the cultural assimilation of Native Americans by the US government for cultural transformation of Native Americans. It was first proposed by the George Washington and Henry Knox. Education was believed to be the primary method for the acculturation of the minorities. The Americanization policies were based on the concept that the natives would be able to merge easily with the society once they learn the American culture. The government also banned the traditional religious ceremonies and established Native American Boarding Schools. In the schools the children were forced to learn English, attend church and study standard subjects. Th Dawes Act of 1887 was also important In the acculturation process as the lands were offered if the native American agreed to leave their tribal self governance and institutions and agreed to become American citizens.