Richard Henry Pratt, the Carlisle Indian Industrial School, and United States policies related to American Indian education 1879 to 1904

This study examines the influence of Richard Henry Pratt's assimilationist philosophies as they were practiced at the Carlisle Indian Industrial School toward federal government policies related to American Indian education between the years 1879 and 1904. American Indian education and federal government policies and practices before 1879 are reviewed to create a foundation of information and to set the tone of the times. In addition to Grant's peace policy, the role of social reformers is included. Furthermore, Richard Henry Pratt's life and experiences with American Indians on the plains, at Fort Marion, and at Hampton Institute are reviewed.;The founding of the Carlisle Indian Industrial School, its curriculum, daily routine, and Pratt's control of the school and all its functions are dealt with in detail. Of special interest is Pratt's use of public relations to preach his assimilationist philosophies, expound on the successes at Carlisle, and to raise monies to supplement the federal government's funding. Pratt's waxing then waning influence in American Indian education is discussed, in addition to his character and how his character traits were related to the morals of the Victorian Age. As these morals changed and Pratt made no compromises not only in his views on the destruction of American Indian culture, but also his views on Civil Service reform and the Dawes Act, his enemies rose up to challenge his methods resulting in his forced retirement in 1904 as superintendent of the Carlisle School.;This study not only attributes the rise and fall of American Indian education in the east to Pratt, but also the importance which the "outing" system and public relations played in American Indian education. Finally, some suggestions for the success of American Indian education today are discussed, based on Pratt's successes and failures.