Residential schools were institutions established primarily in the 19th and 20th centuries, aimed at assimilating Indigenous children into mainstream society. These schools often removed children from their families and communities, placing them in environments where they were prohibited from speaking their native languages or practicing their cultures. The schools were often run by religious organizations and funded by the government. Many children faced harsh conditions, including neglect and abuse, leading to long-lasting impacts on Indigenous communities. The legacy of residential schools continues to affect Indigenous peoples in Canada and the United States today.