Answer:
Large numbers of individuals moved to the West for a variety of reasons:
1. Economic Opportunities: People in quest of employment and fortune were drawn to the West by the finding of gold and the expansion of industry.
2. Agricultural Land: The Homestead Act of 1862 gave settlers in the West free land in exchange for their willingness to start farms and erect houses.
3. Overpopulation: Due to the East's tremendous population growth, people were looking for new places to settle.
4. Political and religious freedom: Some people migrated to the West in order to avoid political or religious persecution or to begin over with a different perspective.
5. Adventure and Curiosity: The concept of adventure and the unknown simply drew people to the West.
During the 19th century, a major population movement to the western United States was caused by these elements, as well as better transportation alternatives and the government's goal for westward development.
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