Manifest Destiny
Allison Thomas, Michaela Gray,
The Indian Removal Act
The Homestead Act
The Homestead Act was established on May 20, 1862. Abraham Lincoln was the president at the time. The purpose of the act was to have people cultivate the land. Only people that have never bore arms to the USA could apply to get land. Once they have applied, the people had five years to improve the land before the government “checked up” on them to see how they were doing. The government considered it improved if you have grown crops and built a homestead that was 12 by 14.
After the five years, the people could apply for a title on the land. Once they have been approved, they had to pay a small registration fee. While the five years of cultivating the land was difficult, about 6 months into the act the railroads came which eased the burden by a lot.
WHAT IS MANIFEST DESTINY AND HOW DID PEOPLE FEEL ABOUT IT?
Manifest destiny is a term for the attitude prevalent during the 19th century period of American expansion that the U.S. not only could, but was destined to stretch from coast to coast. This attitude helped fuel western settlement, native American removal and war with México.
Advocates of manifest destiny believed that expansion was not only wise but that it was readily apparent (manifest) and inexorable (destiny). Native Americans weren't very happy about it due to the fact they were being kicked out of their home by the white men. Killing all their buffalo and taking over their homes and didn't really sit right with the native Americans.
Citations
Research:
1. Richards, Adam. "Indian Removal Act of 1830." Study.com. N.p., n.d. Web. 05 Sept. 2015.
2. "Trail of Tears." History.com. A&E Television Networks, n.d. Web. 05 Sept. 2015.
3."The Homestead Act of 1862." National Archives and Records Administration. National Archives and Records Administration, n.d. Web. 08 Sept. 2015.
Pictures:
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