During 1776 Thomas Jefferson advocated the gift of small quantities of land to the western settlers, although the Homestead Act movement had become a national political issue. Events in the l860's finally forced a showdown.
With the ringing shouts, "free land" came the expectant sod busters, driving their plodding oxen into the sunset.
In the spectaular land rush that followed the Homestead Act, a million and a half determined homesteaders strung their fences in l7 western states, settling some 270 million acres.
The idea that the land belonged to the people, is as old as our Republic.
Even though the land had originally been used by the Native Americans as "hunting grounds" in the summer months. As tradition entailed, the Native Americans did not consider their "owning" the land. It was provided by Mother Nature for food. They gave many thanks ceremoniously for what they took.
A bill was presented and provided that every American citizen over the age of 21 or a person who provided his intention of becoming a citizen, could file a claim to "one quarter section", or 160 acres. The homesteader would be required to live and work on his land for a period of five years, after which he could acquire a deed.
The Homestead Law was widley advertised in Europe, and before long tens of thousands were lured. They traveled in "steerage" were cooped up in foul smelling bunks below deck. From New York, they rode the "new fangled cars" to Chicago, then a box car to trail's end. Then they drove oxen overland another 90 miles into the booming Dakota Territory. There they staked out their land. Life was hard and primitive.
Footnote:
This is how my Grandfather obtained the land he raised his family on and where I was born. When my father retired and sold the land, he was extremely badgered by the tax collectors. Because he only had a Quit Claim Deed from my Grandfather, and no proof that my Grandfather even owned it. It was a bad scene, I was there. They brought him to tears because he did have any answers, nor I. We left! Dad never heard a word from them after that. Had never seen my Dad weep, was extremely hurtfull. AND extremely cruel and inconsiderate on their part.
