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Land Ordinance of 1785

Definition

This was a law passed by Congress under The Articles that set up a system for surveying and selling western lands.

Analogy

Think of this like setting up booths at a school fair. Before you can start selling food or games, you need to divide the space into sections and decide who gets what spot. Similarly, the Land Ordinance divided the western territory into neat squares so it could be sold off in an organized way.

Historical Context

Historical Context

Historical Significance

The Land Ordinance of 1785 had long-lasting effects on American land policy and westward expansion. It set a precedent for organizing territorial expansion and became a blueprint for public land sales. By dividing the new lands into townships and sections, it facilitated orderly development and settlement. Its emphasis on systematic planning reflected Enlightenment ideals and influenced urban planning concepts in America. Furthermore, it provided a way to fund public education through the allocation of land for schools within new townships.

Related terms

Township System: This is the method established by the Land Ordinance for dividing land. Each township was 6 square miles, with one section reserved for public education.

Public Education: One section in each township was set aside to support public schools. This showed early commitment to education in America.

Northwest Territory: This refers to lands northwest of the Ohio River covered by both the Land Ordinance and Northwest Ordinance. It eventually became five U.S states.