In 1862, Congress passed the revolutionary Homestead Act that sent thousands of Americans west in pursuit of free land. 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. Unlike most states, Alaska does not impose an acreage limit for homestead exemptions. Homesteading originated with President Lincoln signing the original Homestead. Act on May 20, 1862. 21, 1976, insofar as homestead laws apply to public lands in Alaska. People have been farming this area for years. Any equity in your home (also called the homestead exemption). Mission San Jose, San Antonio Missions National Historical Park.