Question

1.)Which factor most strongly encouraged settlement of the West in the late 1800s? a. peace with Native Americans

b. Protection by the military c. ability to transport household goods d. free or cheap land
2.) How did the discovery of ores and precious metals affect western settlement?
a. It increased taxes.
b. it increased population.
c. it restricted settlers.
d. it raised money.

Answer 1

1. d. free or cheap land

Land in the West opened following the Civil War. The passage of the Homestead Act opened land for individuals to farm. If they stayed on the land and farm it they were given incentives in a tax break.

2. b. it increased population.

When mines were discovered, especially gold mines, people migrated West to strike it rich or to take advantage of job opportunities. Many immigrants wanting to take a risk moved across the country to settle the West. States in the West increased in population quickly.

Answer 2

Option D is the right answer, that the Free or Cheap land strongly encouraged settlement of the West in the late 1800s.

The Homestead act of 1862, authorized United States Government to encourage the pioneers to provide them land in the West, on the conditions that they ( settlers) had to build their own structures and had to live on the land for not less than five years. Pioneer settlers had trouble finding land for the farm, hence they found it easier to buy land here as the prices of the land were cheaper in comparison to the East.

The correct answer is option B, it increased population.

Farmers, Freedmen and Ranchers worked hard alongside prospectors and industrial miners in a wish to become rich. The discovery of gold in California in 1848, followed by the Gold Rush ( increase in the population) of 1849. During the time of Mining boom, cities were formed nearby beds of ore. As Miners settled in the area their demand of food, home and other needs increased hence the Smart Businessmen moved forth to supply those requirements. Settlers continued to move on in the West until the boom towns changed in the Ghost towns.