18. The Political Status of the Indians (N.p., [1891?] (28 p.)


Report calling for the gradual assimilation of Native Americans into American society. The author, who was Commissioner of Indian Affairs at the time of its publication, traces a progression in the federal government’s policies toward Native Americans; first treating them as separate entities, later as wards of the government, and now as cultures with the potential for full citizenship. He argues that these rights should be given as soon as the various tribes demonstrate their capacity for participation.