Lesson 71 of 84 · Westward Expansion
⭐ 30 XPThe Homestead Act
The Homestead Act was passed by the U.
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The Homestead Act was passed by the U.S. government in 1862. This law encouraged people to move west by offering 160 acres of land for a small fee, as long as they promised to improve the land by building a home and farming it. Many families took advantage of this opportunity to start a new life, but it also led to conflicts with Native Americans who lived on these lands. The Homestead Act played a key role in expanding the United States and shaping its economy.
Key Facts
The Homestead Act was signed into law in 1862.
Families could receive 160 acres of land under the Homestead Act.
The act encouraged westward expansion in the United States.
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Question 1
1 of 2What was the purpose of the Homestead Act?
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