American West - GCSE Key Dates

Explanation
The Homesteaders Act was created in 1862. This act allowed individuals to claim up to 160 acres of public land for a small fee, as long as they agreed to cultivate and improve the land within a specified period of time. The act was passed by the United States Congress as a means to encourage westward expansion and settlement, particularly in the Great Plains region. It provided an opportunity for many people, including immigrants and freed slaves, to obtain land and pursue a new life in America.

Explanation
Gold was discovered in California in 1848. This was a significant event in American history as it led to the California Gold Rush, attracting thousands of people to the region in search of wealth and opportunities. The discovery of gold had a major impact on the development of California and the United States as a whole, with the influx of people contributing to the growth of towns, the establishment of businesses, and the expansion of infrastructure. Therefore, 1848 is the correct answer. The option 1847 is incorrect as gold was not discovered in California during that year.

Explanation
The first transcontinental railroad was completed in 1869. This means that all the necessary construction and infrastructure work for the railroad connecting the eastern and western coasts of the United States was finished during that year. It was a significant achievement in transportation history as it greatly improved travel and trade across the country.

Explanation
The Battle of Wounded Knee took place in 1890. This was a significant event in American history as it marked the end of the Indian Wars and the final major confrontation between Native American tribes and the United States government. The battle occurred at Wounded Knee Creek in South Dakota, where the U.S. Army clashed with a group of Lakota Sioux. The conflict resulted in the death of hundreds of Native Americans, including women and children, and is often seen as a symbol of the oppression and mistreatment of Native American tribes during the westward expansion of the United States.

Explanation
Little Crow's War, also known as the Dakota War of 1862, took place in 1862. It was a conflict between the Dakota Sioux and the United States government, sparked by tensions over broken treaties, unfair treatment, and lack of food and supplies. The war resulted in the largest mass execution in U.S. history, with 38 Dakota men being hanged. The conflict had a significant impact on the relationship between Native Americans and the U.S. government, leading to further displacement and mistreatment of indigenous peoples.

Explanation
The book of Mormons was published in 1830.

Explanation
The Sand Creek Massacre occurred in 1864. This event took place during the American Indian Wars, when a group of Colorado Territory militia attacked and killed around 230 Cheyenne and Arapaho Native Americans, mostly women, children, and elderly people. The massacre was a result of tensions between Native Americans and settlers, as well as a desire to control Native American lands. The event is considered a significant and tragic chapter in American history.

Explanation
Barbed wire was invented in 1874. This invention revolutionized the concept of fencing by incorporating sharp metal barbs along the wire, making it an effective deterrent for livestock and a cost-effective solution for farmers. The invention of barbed wire played a significant role in the development of the American West, as it allowed for the enclosure of vast areas of land, leading to the expansion of agriculture and settlement in previously open territories.

Explanation
The Dawes Act was passed in 1887. This act aimed to assimilate Native Americans into mainstream American society by allotting individual plots of land to Native American families. It also sought to break up tribal land ownership and encourage Native Americans to adopt the European-American agricultural practices. The act had significant negative consequences for Native American communities, leading to the loss of millions of acres of land and the erosion of tribal cultures and traditions.

Explanation
The Battle of Little Bighorn occurred in 1876. This was a significant conflict between the Lakota, Northern Cheyenne, and Arapaho tribes against the United States Army. It took place in present-day Montana and resulted in a major victory for the Native American forces, led by Sitting Bull and Crazy Horse, over General George Custer and his troops. The battle marked a turning point in the Native American resistance against the westward expansion of the United States.

Explanation
The Timber Culture Act was passed in 1873.

Explanation
Abilene, Kansas, gained its nickname "Cow Town" due to its role as a major cattle-shipping center during the post-Civil War era. The town became a significant cattle town in 1867 when the railroad reached the area, facilitating the transport of cattle from Texas to eastern markets.

Explanation
The Desert Land Act was passed in 1877.

Explanation
In 1846, the Mormons settled in Salt Lake City. This means that they established a permanent community in Salt Lake City during that year.

Explanation
Open Range Cattle Farming came to an end in 1887. This marked the decline of the era when cattle were allowed to roam freely on unfenced land. The introduction of barbed wire, the expansion of settlements, and the increasing demand for beef led to the demise of open range farming. Ranchers were forced to fence their land and control their herds, bringing an end to the open grazing system. The year 1887 signifies a significant shift in the cattle industry and the beginning of a new era in ranching practices.