Key Events and Policies in the American West (Late 1800s)

Front

What was the purpose of the Homestead Act of 1862?

Back

To increase the development of western lands by giving 160 acres of land to people who would pay a small filing fee and farm the land for at least five years.

Front

What factors pushed European immigrants to move to the United States?

Back

Scarcity of land in Europe, difficulty in growing enough food, replacement by new farm machinery, and religious and political persecution.

Front

What was the Dawes Act designed to do?

Back

To help American Indians become farmers.

Front

Why did the 'Cattle Kingdom' in the west decline?

Back

Landowners began fencing their property, causing ranchers to lose access to free grazing land.

Front

What were settlers in the mid to late 1800s attracted to in the West?

Back

Gold, silver, and copper.

Front

What was a major consequence of the Homestead Act?

Back

It led to problems between settlers and Native Americans.

Front

What was the last major event marking American settling in the West?

Back

The Oklahoma Land Rush.

Front

What was the Chinese Exclusion Act?

Back

An act put into place in 1882 to restrict Chinese immigration.

Front

Why was present-day Oklahoma significant in the settlement of the Great Plains?

Back

It was a large region set aside for Native Americans.

Front

How did the construction of railroads impact the economy?

Back

It brought an economic boom in the steel and coal industry.