It seems more likely that Jefferson was more concerned with refuting the insulting charges of the comte de Buffon than with any genuine respect for the Indian. The Indian as a Noble Savage served the purpose of showing the positive influence of the North American continent. The philanthropists apparently are to be forgiven for wanting to civilize the Indian, even though the results were disastrous. Since they meant well, that excuses their destruction of Indian culture. Blacks are only mentioned twice, and briefly.
Racism only earns a footnote.
A comparative look at white attitudes toward blacks and Indians could have illuminated Sheehan s story. By ignoring economic motivation in favor of ideas, Sheehan glosses over these critical issues. Although Sheehan provides a thorough look at the attitudes of whites about Indians, he is less successful in proving these attitudes had a direct impact on Indian policy. It is one thing to say the Indian is a Noble Savage when it suits a broader purpose. It is quite another to actually incorporate the Indian into white society.