What was the primary purpose of residential schools in Canada?

The primary purpose of residential schools in Canada was to act as a vehicle for civilization and assimilation. The establishment of these schools was rooted in a governmental policy aimed at assimilating Indigenous peoples into Euro-Canadian society. This meant eradicating Indigenous cultures, languages, and traditions, which were viewed by the authorities as inferior or uncivilized.

Residential schools were designed to separate Indigenous children from their families and communities, often removing them from their cultural contexts in an effort to "civilize" them according to Western ideals. The curriculum often focused on teaching skills that were deemed necessary for integration into mainstream society, while disallowing the use of Indigenous languages and discouraging cultural practices.

While the intention behind the creation of these schools was framed as a means of educating Indigenous children, the true underlying objective was the cultural assimilation, which has had long-lasting negative impacts on Indigenous communities across Canada.