- Politicians believed a Homestead Act would help increase "virtuous yeomen".
- The Free Soil Party (1848-52) and new Republican Party (1854-) wanted western land to be given to independent farmers and not those who are already wealthy.
- Democrats had shot down all previous ideas thinking free land would attract European immigrants and poor southerners. After south seceded the Republicans and supporters passed a homestead act.
- 160 acres granted to US citizens willing to settle for at least 5 years. Had to have never taken up arms against government and be at least 21 or the head of a household. Had to live there for 5 years and show evidence of having made improvements.
1862: Homestead Act
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