Which area did the 1862 homestead act relate to?

The Homestead acts were several laws in the United States by which an applicant could acquire ownership of government land of the  public  domain, typically called a homestead.

The U.S. Government passed the Act to encourage western migration.

The act took place   effect in january, 1863. granted 160 acres of unappropriated public lands to anyone who paid a small filing fee and agree to work on the land and improve it.

the alfred thayer mahan award for literary achievement is awarded each year by the navy league of the united states. the award is named for an american naval historian and theorist, rear admiral alfred thayer mahan, united states navy who, through his writing, provided stimulus and guidance to those who share in the defense of the nation. presented since 1957, "this award for literary achievement is awarded to a u.s. navy officer, u.s. marine corps officer, enlisted service member, or civilian who has made a notable literary contribution that has advanced the knowledge of the importance of sea power in the united states."[1]