The Homestead Act was a law passed in the United States in 1862 that encouraged westward expansion. It allowed individuals to claim 160 acres of public land for a small fee, provided they improved the land by building a dwelling and cultivating crops for five years. This act aimed to promote settlement in the western territories and support the idea of the American Dream. Many families and immigrants took advantage of this opportunity, leading to significant population growth in areas like Nebraska and Kansas. The act played a crucial role in shaping the American landscape and economy.