The residential school system Relationship between the government and First Nations

Elements of continuity The Canadian government continues to pursue its policy of assimilation of First Nations. The residential schools were administered by Christian churches. Young First Nations were forced to abandon/lose their traditional language and cultures.

Description of Life at Residential Schools Living conditions were terrible and the death rate was very high. Between 1880 and 1920 and estimated 25- 30% of children died while living in residential schools. Disease, malnutrition, abuse and accidents were the principal causes of death.

Elements of Change Increase in the number of civil servants in the department of Indian Affairs. Modifications were made to the Indian Act, in order to increase control of life on the reserves. In 1920: it became mandatory for First Nations between 7 and 16 years old to attend residential school.

Elements of Change Band councils were closely surveyed by Indian Agents (who worked for the government). Between 1927-1957: The Indian Act made it illegal for First Nations to have access to a lawyer: they could not take the government to court to get compensation for the loss of their land.

Review Questions How did the residential school system impact the culture of First Nations peoples? How did the Indian Act impact the territory of First Nations peoples? Why did the Canadian government want to assimilate First Nations?

Timeline and suvivors’ stories Visit the website: http://wherearethechildren.ca/en/timeline/research/