Image by The Library of Congress via Flickr
Land has been a valuable commodity since America’s early days. Today, land grants are major boons to businesses, organizations, and individuals. Governments may award a land grant to a business that will improve a piece of neglected property, or as recompense for military services. Land grants are highly valued in the 21st century, while historically, their significance is both ancient and far reaching.
Rewarding the Militia
Following their military service, Roman soldiers were frequently gifted denarii and/or land as a reward for their services to the Empire. This gift of land as a prize for military service appeared in America following the Revolutionary War, when parcels of land were awarded to the veterans. The Military Act of 1812 was a Congressional act that stipulated gifts of land across the country were to be awarded to volunteer soldiers of the War of 1812; Illinois alone set aside 3.5 million acres of tillable land for this purpose.
Land for the Future
In the 16th century, land grants were provided by Britain, Spain, Portugal, and the Netherlands for the purpose of establishing overseas settlements; recipients were then legally required to improve their land by planting crops and erecting a house. This provision led to the establishment of America’s original 13 colonies. Through the 19th century, the growth of railroad was made possible through land grants; the astounding transcontinental railroad would drastically change America’s future forever.
Since their inception, land grants have supported the growth of the Nation. Today they support business who provide economic growth and employment, organizations who seek to preserve and educate, and individuals who hold tight to the American dream.
