15. Document Project 15: American Indians and Whites in the West

Quiz for Document 15.5 James Michael Cavanaugh, Support for Indian Extermination, 1868

Quiz for Document 15.5: James Michael Cavanaugh, Support for Indian Extermination, 1868

Document 15.5: James Michael Cavanaugh, Support for Indian Extermination, 1868

Choose the best answer to the question.

Question 1.1

1. In his speech, James Michael Cavanaugh supports the extermination of the Indians because “you cannot civilize them.” What do you think Cavanaugh means by the term civilize?

Those who do not ascribe to violent strategies to further their aims

People who understand the importance of honoring the terms of a treaty

Groups whose morals and customs are most aligned with his own

Cultures who have a written language and adopt Judeo-Christian theology

Question 1.2

2. What argument does Cavanaugh make to support the extermination of the Indians?

They are not Christian.

They are too violent.

They are too primitive.

They are nomadic.

Question 1.3

3. On what grounds does Cavanaugh dismiss his opponent’s views toward the Indians?

He argues that it is too expensive to negotiate and work with the Indians.

He is a Democrat, and his opponent is a Republican.

He does not dismiss his opponent; they agree on extermination.

His opponent does not know the Indians like he does.

Question 1.4

4. Why does Cavanaugh argue that treaties with the Indians will not work as a permanent solution?

Indians are too prone to violence.

Indians don’t trust American documents.

Indians do not know how to read the documents.

Indians only make peace with other Indians.

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