Morrill Act

The Morrill Act, enacted in 1862 in the United States, was a significant piece of legislation that provided federal land to states to establish colleges focused on agriculture and the mechanical arts. This aimed to promote higher education and practical training for citizens, fostering economic development and improving skills related to farming and industry. The act ultimately led to the creation of numerous land-grant universities, which continue to play a crucial role in research, public service, and education in the U.S., making higher education more accessible to a broader population.