Why was the Land Run of 1889 such a prominent event in Oklahoma history?
Why did boomers seek to venture into land that was not legally theirs?
Which two factors caused boomers to encourage the federal government to open up the Unassigned Lands for non-American Indian settlement?
Describe the requirements, stipulations, and effects of the Homestead Act of 1862.
Responses may vary but should include some or all of the following information: The Homestead Act of 1862 called for the distribution of land in the West to individuals that met certain requirements and stipulations. Individuals had to be at least 21 years of age, the head of a family, and either a US citizen or an alien intending to become a US citizen. People who met these requirements received 60 acres of land if they improved the land and maintained residency for 5 years. They also were able to purchase land for $1.25 an acre if they improved the land and maintained residency for at least 6 months.
The Unassigned Lands were 2 million acres of land that stretched north to south in the middle of Indian Territory that were created by __________.
Describe the events that led to the opening of the Unassigned Lands to settlers.
Responses may vary but should include some or all of the following information: Interest in opening up the land first came after articles in the Chicago Times outlined the opportunities available to settlers in the Unassigned Lands. Boomer supporters like David Lewis Payne, a pioneer and politician, and William Couch pushed into the Unassigned Lands before they were legally open. Their removal and arrest created even more awareness of the lands and a desire to aid in opening the lands for settlement. The tipping point came when the Springer Amendment was passed, allowing the president to declare the Unassigned Lands and Indian Territory open for settlement. Once the lands were open, a land rush occurred. The area became populated, leading the way for statehood down the line.
The Wichita pioneer and politician who actively recruited people to settle in Indian Territory was __________.
American Indians sent delegates to Congress to fight legislation by __________.
Describe the Land Run of 1889 and its effects.
Responses may vary but should include some or all of the following information: The first land run occurred on April 22, 1889. All land grants were claimed within a few hours. An estimated 11,000 homestead claims were made that day. It is estimated that 50,000 to 100,000 boomers participated. These boomers were called eighty-niners. The land run was chaotic and difficult, with many people rushing to claim land or buy lots in railway townships. This boom in population helped pave the way for Oklahoma to become a state.
The first land run occurred on __________.
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