What was a significant consequence of the Indian Boarding Schools?

The significant consequence of Indian Boarding Schools was the forced assimilation into Euro-American culture. These institutions were created with the intent to assimilate Native American children into mainstream American society, which often meant eradicating indigenous languages, customs, and identities. Children were taken from their families and communities, often against their will, and placed in environments where they were compelled to adopt Western ways of living, including language, dress, and religious practices. The underlying philosophy was captured by the motto "Kill the Indian, save the man," reflecting the belief that Native culture was inferior and needed to be replaced by Euro-American values.

In contrast, the other options do not align with the primary outcomes associated with Indian Boarding Schools. These schools did not enhance cultural awareness or preserve Native languages; rather, they actively suppressed these aspects of identity. Educational opportunities in these schools were often limited and focused on vocational training rather than providing a comprehensive or culturally relevant education. As a result, the legacy of Indian Boarding Schools is largely viewed as a damaging episode in Native American history, characterized by attempts to erase indigenous identities.