The Homestead Act

The Homestead Act, passed in 1862, encouraged westward expansion by providing land to settlers willing to cultivate it. Under this law, individuals could claim 160 acres of land for a small fee if they agreed to farm and improve the land for five years.

This act attracted many families seeking new opportunities, but it also contributed to the displacement of Native populations, as settlers moved into their territories. The Homestead Act played a significant role in shaping the American landscape and society.