In 1862, Congress passed the revolutionary Homestead Act that sent thousands of Americans west in pursuit of free land. Homesteading originated with President Lincoln signing the original Homestead.Act on May 20, 1862. What was the history leading up to the 1862 Homestead Act? As the United States emerged as a new nation in the late 18th century, it accumulated title to land. The Homestead Act of 1862 opened up millions of acres. Any adult who had never taken up arms against the federal government of the United States could apply. Unlike most states, Alaska does not impose an acreage limit for homestead exemptions. Under the Act, a homesteader only had to be the head of the household or at least 21 years old to claim 160 acres of land. Add to Favorites: Create a new folder and put document in it.