The bureau of indian affairs established boarding schools for the purpose of

Boarding schools were established for the purposes of assimilating Native Americans in American culture. Most Americans in the late-nineteenth century viewed Native American culture as inferior and to American civilization. Boarding schools were important in that Native Americans could be introduced to Western culture not only in the classroom but in all aspects of their lives. This was especially true as it related to living arrangements, cultural and religious practices and dress and etiquette.