Did Lincoln want to assimilate the American Indians to the American lifestyle?
To answer whether Abraham Lincoln wanted to assimilate the American Indians to the American lifestyle, we need to examine historical records and Lincoln's policies regarding Native American populations. Here are the steps you can follow to investigate this further:
1. Research Lincoln's policies: Begin by looking into the various policies and actions Lincoln implemented during his presidency. Specifically, focus on his policies concerning Native American tribes and reservations. A good starting point would be to explore the Indian Removal Act of 1830 and subsequent policies that Lincoln supported or enacted.
2. Examine historical sources: Consult scholarly articles, books, and primary source materials to gain a comprehensive understanding of Lincoln's perspective on assimilating Native Americans. Letters, speeches, and official documents can provide valuable insights into his beliefs and intentions.
3. Explore the Indian Peace Commission: Investigate Lincoln's involvement with the Indian Peace Commission, established in 1867, which aimed to address Native American issues. Look for any indications of his stance on assimilation or efforts to promote cultural integration.
4. Consider the context: Take into account the prevailing attitudes and policies towards Native Americans during Lincoln's time period. Understand that assimilation and cultural integration were ideas that many politicians and policymakers subscribed to during the 19th century.
By conducting thorough research using these steps, you can gain an understanding of Lincoln's views and actions concerning the assimilation of Native Americans into American society. It's important to interpret historical events within their historical context, keeping in mind the complexities and evolving perspectives of the time.