A Level History - America - Practice Exam

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Prepare for the A Level History America Exam. Access flashcards and multiple choice questions with explanations. Ace your exam with confidence!

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What was a key provision of the Homestead Act of 1862?

Providing subsidies for farmers
Reducing land taxes
Offering 160 acres of free land
Establishing agricultural cooperatives

The correct answer is: Offering 160 acres of free land

The Homestead Act of 1862 was a significant piece of legislation aimed at encouraging westward expansion in the United States. One of its key provisions was the offer of 160 acres of free land to settlers who were willing to cultivate it for a minimum of five years. This was intended to promote settlement in the western territories and provide opportunities for those seeking a fresh start, including immigrants and those displaced from the East. By providing free land, the Act incentivized individuals and families to move westward, develop the land, and thereby contribute to the nation's growth. This initiative was instrumental in shaping the landscape of the American frontier and encouraging a population shift. The success of the Homestead Act had lasting impacts on American agriculture and society, ultimately aiding in the establishment of numerous farms and communities across the western United States.