1. What are some of the main reasons that the federal government's policy of assimilation failed?
One reason was that the native Americans had not settled down to "improve" the land,while white settlers made new railroads and starting new businesses. Also the Natives were herded further because of gold rushes. The government modified the location of where the Native Americans would be able to stay and hunt. Also, many white people did not believe Native Americans could become "civilized".


2. How successful were government efforts to promote settlement of the Great Plains? Give examples to support your answer.
The railroads connected the east and west coast, so families could move to the great plains much easier via the train. Since the land was free, farms became plentiful on the great plains.
I think the fact the railroad was there provided families a much easier journey, and probably persuaded many to go to the great plains.