The Broken Feathers of Lost Children: The Carlisle Indian Boarding School (Paperback) (ISBN-13: 9798996716500)

In 1879, a boarding school was established in Carlisle, Pennsylvania, by Richard Henry Pratt and the United States government for Native American children. The purpose of this institution was to educate and assimilate these children into American society, aiming to erase Native American culture and integrate them into what was referred to as the "white man's world."

Before European settlers arrived, Native American traditions and cultures were generally peaceful and productive. However, as settlers encroached on their land, Native Americans were forced to move westward and live on reservations, often lacking the resources to provide food and care for their families and communities. This situation led to widespread anger and hostility, prompting many Native Americans to fight for their rights and lands, resulting in numerous wars and significant loss of life.

Richard Henry Pratt had a substantial military background, which provided him with insights into the conflicts and allowed him to build relationships with Native American communities. He believed he could "take the Indian out of the child" and integrate them into American civilization, famously stating, "Kill the Indian, save the man."

This book explores the historical context and challenges that led to the establishment of these boarding schools, the experiences of those involved, and the stories of the children whose lives were profoundly impacted by the actions of others. While the narrative is fictional, it draws on historical events and testimonies from those who lived through this turbulent period.