Objective

By the end of this lesson, the student will have a clear understanding of the Homestead Act and the Land Rush, and be able to explain their significance in American history.

Materials and Prep

• Computer or tablet with internet access
• Pen and paper

Activities

• Activity 1: Research the Homestead Act
  

  Have the student conduct online research to learn about the Homestead Act. They should find out when it was passed, who it benefited, and the requirements for claiming land under the act.

• Activity 2: Create a Homestead Application
  

  Ask the student to imagine they are a settler in the late 1800s and they want to claim land under the Homestead Act. Have them create a fictional homestead application, including personal information, reasons for wanting the land, and plans for its use.

• Activity 3: Simulate a Land Rush
  

  Explain to the student the concept of a land rush, where settlers raced to claim the best land available. Set up a small course in your backyard or living room and have the student participate in a simulated land rush. Time them as they run to claim a designated spot, representing a piece of land.

• Activity 4: Analyze Primary Sources
  

  Provide the student with copies of primary sources related to the Homestead Act and the Land Rush. These could be photographs, letters, or newspaper articles. Have them analyze the sources and write a short reflection on what they reveal about the experiences of settlers during that time.

Talking Points

• Background of the Homestead Act
  

  "The Homestead Act was signed into law by President Abraham Lincoln on May 20, 1862. It aimed to encourage settlement in the western territories by granting 160 acres of public land to anyone who met the requirements."

• Requirements for Claiming Land
  

  "To claim land under the Homestead Act, settlers had to be at least 21 years old or the head of a household. They also had to live on the land, build a dwelling, and cultivate crops for a period of five years."

• Impacts of the Homestead Act
  

  "The Homestead Act played a significant role in the westward expansion of the United States. It provided opportunities for many people to own land and start a new life. However, it also had negative consequences for Native American tribes, as their lands were taken away."

• The Land Rush
  

  "During the land rush, settlers would line up at the border of a designated territory and wait for a signal to start. They would then race on horseback or in wagons to stake their claim on the best land available."

• Challenges Faced by Settlers
  

  "Settlers faced numerous challenges when claiming land, such as harsh weather conditions, lack of resources, and conflicts with Native American tribes. Many had to work hard to make their land productive and establish a successful homestead."