A Level History - America - Practice Exam

What was the primary focus of the Indian Reorganization Act of 1934?

1. Assimilation of Native Americans into mainstream culture

2. Respect for tribal culture and land control

3. Promotion of agricultural advancements among Native Americans

4. Financial support for Native American businesses

The correct answer is: Respect for tribal culture and land control

The Indian Reorganization Act of 1934 aimed to reverse the previous policy of assimilation that sought to integrate Native Americans into mainstream American society. Instead, the Act recognized the importance of tribal sovereignty and attempted to respect and preserve Native American cultures and governance structures. It provided for the restoration of tribal lands and a degree of self-governance, allowing tribes to establish their own governments and manage their affairs. This focus on respecting tribal culture and encouraging self-determination marked a significant shift in federal policy towards Native Americans, in stark contrast to earlier practices that promoted assimilation. The other options do not fully reflect the primary intent of the Act. While agricultural advancements and financial support for businesses might have been secondary considerations, they were not the main focus. Likewise, the Act opposed the notion of assimilation, which fundamentally sets it apart from the idea of integrating Native Americans into mainstream culture.