It simply means that up to that time the American Army had been pursuing methods recognized .as legitimate in warfare between civilized nations. We all know what is meant by the methods pursued by European nations and European armies in dealing with insurrections in Asia. We know the harshness. the cruelties. the wholesale slaughter. and the absolute indifference to life in the wholesale with which European nations deal with insurrections among Asiatics. and here is the distinct proposition from General Bell in his official report. He practically says we are waging war along civilized lines and according to civilized rules and we can not put down this insurrection. but if you will throw aside these restraints. if you will turn us loose to burn and slaughter and to massacre and to perpetrate all species of cruelty and barbarity known to the history of wars in Asia. we will put down this rebellion and this insurrection. What else can it mean?
Identified stereotypes
Asiatics are described as being dealt with harshly and cruelly by European nations.