What was the main issue addressed by the Dawes Act of 1887?

The Dawes Act of 1887, officially known as the General Allotment Act, primarily aimed to assimilate Native Americans into American society by transforming tribal land ownership into individual ownership. Under this act, Native American communal lands were surveyed and divided into smaller, individual plots, which were then allotted to Native American families. This policy sought to encourage farming and self-sufficiency among Native Americans, reflecting the belief that individual land ownership was a key aspect of American identity and a means to promote civilization and economic independence.

By promoting individual land ownership, the Dawes Act aimed to weaken tribal affiliations and promote assimilation into American culture. The long-term consequence of this act was the loss of millions of acres of land that had previously belonged to Native American tribes, as surplus lands not allotted were often sold to non-Native settlers.

The other options listed do not accurately reflect the central focus of the Dawes Act. The abolition of slavery pertains to a different historical context, while the establishment of national parks and the regulation of railroads are separate legislative and policy initiatives that do not relate to Native American land ownership or assimilation efforts. Therefore, the correct choice accurately identifies the primary objective of the Dawes Act.