may 20, 1862 - Homestead Act of 1862

Description:

The first of the Homestead Acts, it granted 160 acres of land to any adult citizen (including freed slaves after the passage of the 14th Amendment) who had not taken up arms against the US government (including women), provided that they live on the land for at least 5 years and improve it. it took effect on January 1, 1863.

Added to timeline:

Date: