Homesteading and Week 2 Flashcard - M4W2 - HMH

Front

What is homesteading?

Back

Homesteading is the process of settling on and developing land, often with the goal of farming or building a home.

Front

What was the Homestead Act?

Back

The Homestead Act was a law passed in 1862 that allowed people to claim land in the Great Plains for free or at a very low cost, encouraging westward expansion.

Front

Why did many people move to the Great Plains?

Back

Many people moved to the Great Plains to get land free or at a greatly reduced cost.

Front

What does it mean to be a homesteader?

Back

A homesteader is a person who settles on and cultivates land, often under the provisions of the Homestead Act.

Front

What was the significance of Abraham Lincoln in relation to the Homestead Act?

Back

Abraham Lincoln supported the Homestead Act, which made land available to ordinary people, not just the wealthy.

Front

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

Back

The Great Plains were called the 'Great American Desert' because early explorers thought the land was worthless due to its lack of trees and limited rainfall.

Front

What was one result of the Homestead Act?

Back

One result of the Homestead Act was that it allowed people to earn a living and help develop the young country.

Front

How did the Homestead Act affect population movement?

Back

The Homestead Act led to increased migration to the Midwest and the Pacific Coast as people sought land.

Front

What challenges did homesteaders face on the Great Plains?

Back

Homesteaders faced challenges such as harsh weather, limited resources, and the need to build homes and farms from scratch.

Front

What role did railroads play in homesteading?

Back

Railroads facilitated travel to the Great Plains and helped transport goods, making it easier for homesteaders to settle and thrive.