3. Native Americans in the Gilded Age, c1875-c1895

Background to Native Americans in Gilded Age

Can be argued had potential to improve their position in number of areas, most notably education

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Background to Native Americans in Gilded Age

Opportunities offered to NAs were not what they wanted and many NAs see period as attack on both their culture and right as government pursued policy of assimilation.

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The gains for Native Americans

Dawes Severalty Act of 1887 gave some NAs opportunity to become landowners. Also meant they became full US citizens.

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Lack of progress for Native Americans

Although US gov believed Dawes and citizenship was beneficial for NAs, it was not what they wanted - they were more concerned about preserving own culture and achieving self-determination

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The gains for Native Americans

Reservations were established for NAs and this gave them opportunity to establish farming communities. Also provided opportunity for better healthcare, which, given their high death rates, was essential.

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The gains for Native Americans

Although it had not been intention of government, establishment of reservations made it easier for NA tribal customs and life to survive

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The gains for Native Americans

Two boarding schools, situated away from reservations, were established which gave NAs opportunity to find better jobs - some were able to find employment working in Indian Agency Offices, others acting as interpreters or army scouts.

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Lack of progress for Native Americans

Quality of education provided was often limited.

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The gains for Native Americans

NA victory against Custer at Battle of Little Bighorn in 1876 had convinced some, albeit minority, position of NAs did need to improve, arguing conflict was result of poor treatment. Major breakthrough, even if only minority view.

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