Final answer:
Land acquisition was indeed a central motivating factor in the formulation of early U.S. Indian policy, making the statement true. As settlers looked westward, conflicts over land became frequent, and policies often resulted in the displacement and unjust treatment of Native American peoples. The correct option is a. true
Step-by-step explanation:
The question posed pertains to the motivation behind early U.S. Indian policy, particularly in relation to land acquisition. The premise of the question is whether acquiring land was the most important factor motivating the formulation of the United States policy towards Native American tribes.
While there were certainly other factors at play, including political, economic, and cultural considerations, land acquisition was indeed a central issue.
As European settlers expanded westward, the pressure to acquire lands previously inhabited by Indigenous peoples increased.
This expansion was often pursued at the expense of Native American tribes through policies that included treaties that were frequently coerced or unfair, and at times through direct conflict.
Therefore, the statement in the question is true. The desire for land and the resources it provided can be seen as a consistent and driving factor in the government's approach to interactions with Native American tribes.
These policies led to forced removals, such as the Trail of Tears, and numerous conflicts as U.S. expansion continued to encroach upon Native American lands throughout the 18th and 19th centuries.
Understanding this historical context is crucial for recognizing the complex legacy of such policies and their lasting impact on Indigenous populations in the United States. The correct option is a. true