Legislation passed in 1862 allowing any citizen or applicant for citizenship over 21 years old and head of a family to acquire 160 acres of public land by living on it and cultivating it for five years.

Homestead Act

Explanation:

The initial goal for this legislation was to rehabilitate united states' economy after being severely damage because of the civil war. By granting  the citizens with the free land, the government hope that they can build businesses that stimulate the growth of united states economy. It also could attract investments from European countries.

b) to encourage free trade

i'll just take the points xd