Final answer:
John Collier's leadership in the Bureau of Indian Affairs led to the Indian Reorganization Act, which shifted federal policy from assimilation to cultural preservation and self-governance for Native Americans. He is both criticized for his methods and revered for his intent to restore Native sovereignty.
Step-by-step explanation:
John Collier, as the Commissioner of the Bureau of Indian Affairs, brought significant changes affecting Native Americans. Under his leadership, the Indian Reorganization Act of 1934 was passed, which marked a shift from policies of assimilation to ones favoring preservation of Native American cultures and autonomy. One of the key shifts included the return of nearly two million acres of land to Native tribes, promoting the development of local self-government. Additionally, the Act led to the reduction of boarding schools that forced assimilation, instead fostering cultural preservation by allowing Native American children to attend day schools on their reservations. It also enabled tribes to elect tribal councils for self-governance, further strengthening their political autonomy.
Despite some successes, Collier faced criticism from Native Americans and scholars for his sometimes paternalistic approach and imposition of elective government systems that conflicted with traditional tribal governance. However, his efforts also included the cessation of forced Christianization in boarding schools and the initiation of programs like the Indian Emergency Conservation Program (IECP), which provided employment to 80,000 Native Americans. These measures attempted to reverse centuries of federal policies aimed at Native American extinction and assimilation.