Kill The Indian Save The Man Quote
Introduction
"Kill the Indian, Save the Man" is a quote that has been attributed to Captain Richard H. Pratt, the founder of the Carlisle Indian Industrial School in Pennsylvania in the late 19th century. This quote has become controversial and has been used to criticize the cultural assimilation policies of the United States government towards Native Americans.
The Context of the Quote
The Carlisle Indian Industrial School was founded in 1879 by Captain Pratt, a former U.S. Army officer who believed that Native Americans could be assimilated into white American society through education and vocational training. The school was intended to be a model for other Indian boarding schools that were established across the country.
Captain Pratt believed that Native American culture was inferior to white American culture and that Native Americans needed to be "civilized" in order to become productive members of society. He believed that the best way to achieve this was to strip Native Americans of their language, culture, and traditions and replace them with white American values.
The Meaning of the Quote
The quote "Kill the Indian, Save the Man" is often interpreted as a call to eradicate Native American culture and replace it with white American culture. The phrase "Kill the Indian" refers to the idea of destroying Native American identity, while "Save the Man" suggests that assimilation into white American culture is necessary for Native Americans to become fully human.
Many Native American activists and scholars have criticized this quote as being racist and dehumanizing. They argue that Native American culture is a valuable part of American history and that efforts to erase it are harmful and disrespectful.
The Legacy of the Quote
The legacy of the quote "Kill the Indian, Save the Man" is complex. On the one hand, it represents a dark chapter in American history where Native Americans were forcibly removed from their homes and sent to boarding schools where they were punished for speaking their own language and practicing their own traditions.
On the other hand, the quote has also become a rallying cry for Native American activists who are fighting to preserve their culture and traditions. It has become a symbol of resistance against the assimilation policies of the U.S. government and a reminder of the strength and resilience of Native American communities.
Conclusion
The quote "Kill the Indian, Save the Man" is a controversial and complex topic. While it represents a dark chapter in American history, it has also become a symbol of resistance and resilience for Native American communities. It is important to remember the legacy of this quote and to continue to work towards a future where all cultures are respected and celebrated.