What was the goal of the policy of assimilation regarding Native Americans?

The goal of the policy of assimilation regarding Native Americans was to integrate Native American culture into European-American culture. This approach sought to transform Native Americans into members of a predominantly European-American society, aiming to replace their traditional ways of life with those of white settlers. It involved the imposition of European-American values, customs, and lifestyles, often at the expense of indigenous identities, languages, and practices.

Through policies like the establishment of boarding schools, Native American children were taught to abandon their languages, cultural practices, and beliefs in favor of adopting European-American norms. The underlying assumption was that by assimilating into the dominant culture, Native Americans would become more "civilized" and thus more integrated into American society. This historical context highlights the significant impact these policies had on Native American communities and their cultural heritage.