Homesteads are plots of land where individuals or families live and cultivate crops or raise animals. The concept originated in the 19th century, particularly with the Homestead Act of 1862 in the United States, which encouraged westward expansion by granting land to settlers. Homesteaders typically built their own homes and worked the land to become self-sufficient. Today, homesteading can refer to a lifestyle focused on self-reliance and sustainability. Many modern homesteaders grow their own food, raise livestock, and practice skills like canning and preserving. This movement emphasizes a connection to the land and a simpler way of living, often incorporating eco-friendly practices.