"But we must not try to drive the Indians too fast in effecting these changes"

This quote by George Crook is referring to the modifications that were happening in the lives of Native Americans throughout the late 19th century. Crook was a U.S. Army General who was understood for his understanding mindset towards Native Americans and his efforts to safeguard their rights. He was also an advocate of assimilation, thinking that Native Americans should embrace the methods of the white inhabitants. Nevertheless, he was also familiar with the difficulties that Native Americans faced in making such extreme modifications and he cautioned versus pushing them too hard. He believed that Native Americans ought to be enabled to make the transition to a more modern-day way of life at their own pace, which they need to be provided the time and assistance they needed to make the necessary adjustments. Crook's quote is a reminder that change can be challenging which it ought to be approached with perseverance and understanding.