After the Civil War, many people from eastern cities were motivated to move west due to the promise of land, economic opportunities, and the prospect of a fresh start. The Homestead Act of 1862 offered settlers 160 acres of public land for a small fee, attracting farmers seeking new opportunities. Additionally, the lure of gold and silver discoveries, along with the expansion of railroads, made westward migration more accessible and appealing. The desire for adventure and the chance to escape crowded urban environments also fueled this westward movement.
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