The correct answer to your question is the Homestead Act. The Homestead Act was put into effect in 1862 by the United States government. It provided an opportunity for individuals to acquire 160 acres of land in the Great Plains region, specifically in areas such as Kansas, Nebraska, and the Dakotas. These individuals, known as homesteaders, had to meet certain requirements, such as being at least 21 years old, a U.S. citizen or intending to become one, and living on the land for a set period of time, usually five years. By fulfilling these requirements and making improvements to the land, such as building a dwelling and cultivating crops, homesteaders could claim ownership of the land without having to pay any money. The Homestead Act was a major factor in the westward expansion of the United States and played a crucial role in the settlement and development of the Great Plains region.
