The Morrill Land-Grant Acts were two significant pieces of legislation passed in the United States, first in 1862 and then in 1890. These acts provided federal land to states to establish colleges focused on agriculture and the mechanical arts, promoting practical education. The goal was to make higher education accessible to a broader population, especially for those in rural areas. The 1862 act allowed states to sell the land to fund the creation of these institutions, while the 1890 act aimed to support historically black colleges and universities. Together, they played a crucial role in expanding educational opportunities and advancing agricultural and technical knowledge in the U.S.