Exploring American Histories: Printed Page 491
Interpret the Evidence
On what basis does James Michael Cavanaugh (Document 15.6) claim to be in a better position than Benjamin Butler to judge the best way to deal with Indians?
How does Thomas Nast’s illustration (Document 15.7) compare with the arguments made by Congressman Cavanaugh?
What assumptions about Indians and their culture underlay the policy of assimilation advocated by reformers such as Helen Hunt Jackson (Document 15.8)?
What options did Indians have when confronted with white determination to eradicate their culture? What choice did Zitkala-Ša (Document 15.9) make? Why?
How did Chief Joseph’s experience (Document 15.10) reflect the fundamental contradiction of federal policy toward Indians?
Put It in Context
Imagine that you are an American president in the second half of the nineteenth century and can design Indian policy. Based on what you have read, what would you do, and why? What challenges might you face as you attempted to implement your policy?