APUSH 6.2 Westward Expansion: Economic Development | Heimler

Front

What was the primary means of planting and harvesting crops during the period of westward expansion from 1877 to 1898?

Back

Mechanical reaper and combine harvester

Front

What effect did the mechanization of agriculture have on crop production between 1870 and 1900?

Back

Crop production roughly doubled.

Front

What was the impact of decreasing crop prices on small farmers during the period of westward expansion?

Back

They struggled to compete in the market.

Front

What was the purpose of the National Grange Movement during the period of westward expansion?

Back

To advocate for government intervention in agriculture

Front

Which legislation granted potential migrants 160 acres of free land out west on the condition that they would farm it and settle it?

Back

Homestead Act of 1862

Front

What was the impact of the Homestead Act of 1862 on small farmers in the midwest?

Back

It resulted in many farmers going bankrupt.

Front

What was the purpose of the Pacific Railroads Acts during the period of westward expansion?

Back

To grant huge swaths of land to railroad companies

Front

What was the significance of the Commerce Act of 1886 in relation to railroad rates?

Back

It required railroad rates to be reasonable and just.

Front

What led to the influx of over 100,000 migrants into the Kansas and Nebraska territories in 1869?

Back

Discovery of gold in the region

Front

Which event led to the establishment of boomtowns like Denver City and Boulder City in the Pike’s Peak region?

Back

Discovery of gold in the region