Conform Quote by Thomas Morgan U.S. Commissioner of Indian Affairs
““The Indians must conform to 'the white man’s ways', peaceably if they will, forcibly if they must. They must adjust themselves to their environment, and conform their mode of living substantially to our civilization. This civilization may not be the best possible, but it is the best the Indians can get. They cannot escape it, and must either conform to it or be crushed by it. The tribal relations should be broken up, socialism destroyed, and the family and the autonomy of the individual substituted.””
About This Quote
Source Speech: Policy address, early 20th century US government
The speaker argues that Indigenous peoples must adopt white civilization, threatening destruction if they resist, emphasizing forced assimilation.
In simple terms: Indians should conform to white ways or be crushed.
Key Takeaway
Question imposed cultural assimilation.
Themes
colonization
assimilation
power
culture
conflict
Mood
critical
somber
Type
political
historical
When to use this quote
- colonial policy
- education reform
- missionary work
Key Concepts
cultural imperialism
social engineering
human rights
Questions to Reflect On
- Is forced assimilation ever justified?
- What are the long‑term impacts on Indigenous identity?
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