Question

Provide at least three examples of how ethnocentrism played a role in the way that the Indian boarding schools operated.

Answer 1

Ethnocentrism played a role in Indian boarding schools through cultural assimilation, forced religious conversion, and physical/cultural suppression.

Step-by-step explanation:

Ethnocentrism played a significant role in the operation of Indian boarding schools in several ways:

1. Cultural assimilation: The schools aimed to assimilate Native American students into mainstream American culture. They prohibited the use of native languages, traditional clothing, and cultural practices, imposing Euro-American customs and values.
2. Forced religious conversion: Students were often forced to convert to Christianity and abandon their traditional spiritual beliefs. This was done under the assumption that Euro-American religion was superior, reflecting ethnocentrism.
3. Physical and cultural suppression: Native American students were subjected to strict discipline, physical punishments, and an education system that aimed to erase their indigenous identity. This was a direct result of ethnocentric beliefs that devalued Native American culture.

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