USA HISTORY

Detailed explanation-1: -While the intentions of this legislation inherently seem to create a positive situation for an oppressed population, African-Americans, it simultaneously negatively affected Native Americans living on lands that were thought to be free to expanding Homesteaders.

Detailed explanation-2: -Most of the land went to speculators, cattle owners, miners, loggers, and railroads.

Detailed explanation-3: -The Homestead Act increased the number of people in the western United States. Most Native Americans watched the arrival of homesteaders with unease. As more settlers arrived, they found themselves pushed farther from their homelands or crowded onto reservations.

Detailed explanation-4: -The incentive to move and settle on Western territory was open to all U.S. citizens, or intended citizens, and resulted in 4 million homestead claims, although 1.6 million deeds in 30 states were actually officially obtained. Montana, followed by North Dakota, Colorado and Nebraska had the most successful claims.