Native people that were forced to live on reservations were often forced to go through a process of Americanization. Under such
a process, natives were encouraged to give up their own language and culture in favor of adopting American values. What good intentions might the government officials have had in implementing the policy of Americanization? What negative effects might such a policy have on children put through such an education?
The government's idea was probably that they'd fit in better, and have an easier time living amongst us and finding work if they adopted our customs, language, and all of that good stuff.
The bad effects this could have on kids, they really don't understand why they'd be forced to adopt these new ways. Mom and Dad have always taught them to do this, but the government is telling them to do that now. They might feel like outcasts, or like their ways aren't welcomed.
1. Government officials might have honestly felt that Americanization was the best way to ensure success in American society. The officials may have had an ignorant view of culture leading them to believe that American culture was superior to Native culture.
2. Such an education could create shame about one’s own culture.
It turned people within the same tribe against each other.
It might help destroy culture that existed for centuries.
