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The history of missionary schools in North America reveals their role in the assimilation of Indigenous children into mainstream society. Established in the 19th century, these schools aimed to replace native cultures with Euro-American customs and the English language. The harsh conditions, abuse, and resistance from Indigenous communities are discussed, as well as the enduring impact of these institutions on Indigenous peoples.
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The primary aim of missionary schools was to assimilate Indigenous children into mainstream American society through education and cultural erasure
Colonel Richard Henry Pratt
Pratt's philosophy of "Kill the Indian, save the man" encapsulated the assimilationist goals of missionary schools
The curriculum focused on English literacy, Christian teachings, and Euro-American values, while also promoting gender-specific vocational training
Life in missionary schools was characterized by strict discipline, physical abuse, and inadequate living conditions
Concealment and Escape
Some Indigenous families resisted by hiding their children or teaching them to escape from the schools
Collective Refusal
Some tribes collectively refused to participate in the schools, leading to punitive measures from the U.S. government
The abusive practices and failure to achieve assimilation goals led to the decline of missionary schools, with most closing by the mid-20th century
The legacy of missionary schools includes long-term psychological trauma and cultural disconnection experienced by survivors and their descendants
The recent uncovering of mass graves at former school sites has sparked discussions about the need for reconciliation and acknowledgement of the injustices faced by Indigenous peoples
00
The initial government-operated school for ______ children was established in 1860 on the ______ Indian Reservation.
Indigenous
Yakima
01
Missionary schools' impact on Indigenous identity
Forced name and attire changes to erase Indigenous identity, imposed Euro-American norms.
02
Vocational training in missionary schools
Gender-specific skills taught: domestic for girls, agricultural/mechanical for boys.
