1. Perspectives on
westward expansion

2. Homesteading

3. Homestead act of 1862
Enabled people to claim “unused” lands in US territories
Three-part process
File application w/General Land Office
$10 fee
Improve the land
File deed of title
Afterwards, individuals owned the land

4. The Process Improve the land File deed of title Live there for 5 years
Build a 12x14 dwelling
Plant crops
File deed of title
Submit proof of residency and proof of required improvements
Become owner of 160 acres

5. A Homestead Cabin

6. Exceptions
Only US citizens or intended citizens who hadn’t borne arms against US could apply
Could get the title in 6 months if you could pay $1.25/acre
Civil War vets could deduct time in military from 5 years

7. “Homestead Days in Montana”
By Pearl Price Robertson
What are some hopeful, positive, or optimistic events or descriptions in Robertson’s narrative?
What are some negative aspects or observations in the narrative?
In your opinion, based on the text, why is Robertson so optimistic?
If you were in her shoes, would you be optimistic? Explain.

8. Problems 12x14 Loophole General Land Office underfunding
Physical conditions in homestead locations
Predatory advertising
“Unused” status of land

10. Federal / Tribal interactions
Essential Understanding 5
There were many federal policies put into place throughout American history that have affected Indian people and still shape who they are today. Many of these policies conflicted with one another.
Much of Indian history can be related through several major federal policy periods.

11. Federal Policy Periods
Colonization/Colonial Period 1492 – 1800s
Treaty Period
Assimilation Period - Allotment and Boarding School
Tribal Reorganization Period
Termination and Relocation Period
Self-determination Period 1968 – Present