Homesteading and Week 2 Flashcard - M4W2 - HMH

Front

What was the Homestead Act?

Back

A law that allowed people to claim land in the Great Plains for free or at a very low cost.

Front

Why did many people move to the Great Plains after the Homestead Act?

Back

To get land free or at a greatly reduced cost.

Front

What did the Homestead Act encourage people to do?

Back

It encouraged people to earn a living and help develop the young country.

Front

Why were the Great Plains referred to as the 'Great American Desert'?

Back

Early explorers thought the land was worthless because it had no trees.

Front

Who supported the Homestead Act?

Back

Abraham Lincoln.

Front

What was one reason people were unhappy before the Homestead Act?

Back

Many people were unhappy with how Congress planned to use the land.

Front

What does the term 'homesteader' mean?

Back

A person who settles on land granted by the Homestead Act.

Front

What was a common misconception about the Great Plains?

Back

That it was a desert and not suitable for farming.

Front

How did the Homestead Act impact the population of the Great Plains?

Back

It led to an increase in population as people moved there for land.

Front

What was one challenge faced by homesteaders?

Back

The land produced fewer crops than they needed.