could American Indians have done better in the face of European encroachment? If so, How could they have done better for themselves?

American Indians had their own culture and philosophy. This understanding of the world as widely misunderstood by European settlers, who always saw Native Americans as an obstacle, or even menace to their expansionary interests.

Indians quickly understood the European settlers interests and in many cases adopted a stiff opposition and conflictive attitude towards them. This would eventually lead to memorable incidents, such as the Wounded Knee Massacre, where the US army killed numerous Indians due to a misunderstanding that escalated into a fight.

There was a clear lack of understanding between both parts and both of them have a degree of responsibility for it.