Chester A. Arthur on American Indian Policy (1881)

Introduction

• The management of Indian affairs is a significant issue for Congress.
• Previous approaches have been temporary and insufficient in addressing the underlying issues.
• The policy of treating Indian tribes as separate nations and relocating them to reservations has been a major source of conflict.

Problems with Past Policies

• Reservations were created far from white settlements, encouraging tribes to live traditionally but limiting integration.
• As white settlements expanded, Indians were repeatedly displaced, leading to conflicts.
• Despite significant costs and loss of life, the "Indian problem" remains unsolved.

Proposed Solutions

• Recent government efforts show promise in integrating Indians into American society.

Legislation Recommendations

1. Application of State Laws to Reservations

   • Extend State laws to Indian reservations and unoccupied Indian Territory.
   • Allow Indians to defend their rights in court, aiding their progress toward civilization.

2. Land Allotment in Severalty

   • Allow Indians to own land individually (in severalty), secured by patent and inalienable for 20-25 years.
   • Encourages Indians to engage in agriculture as a means of sustaining themselves.
   • Aims to dissolve tribal bonds and integrate Indians into the mass of American citizens.

3. Support for Indian Education

   • Increase funding for Indian schools to separate children from tribal life and immerse them in civilized environments.
   • Expected to be more effective than reservation day schools.

Conclusion

• The outlined policies aim to gradually absorb Indians into American society and promote their rights and responsibilities as citizens.
• The success of these policies depends on Congressional support and legislative action.