Texas Surveyors Practice Exam

How many acres could a claimant receive in the 1881 grant if their assets were under $1000?

1. 640 acres

2. 1280 acres

3. 160 acres

4. 320 acres

The correct answer is: 1280 acres

In the context of the 1881 grant, the entitlement for claimants is based on the value of their assets. If a claimant's assets were under $1000, they were typically eligible for a land grant of 640 acres. This size was determined as a way to provide land to individuals who may not have had significant resources yet still had the potential to successfully develop and cultivate the land. Understanding the specifics of such grants is crucial for grasping the historical context of land allocation in Texas. The policy aimed to promote settlement and agriculture by granting sizeable tracts of land to those who might contribute to the development of the territory. As a result, the correct answer signifies an important legislative effort to support land ownership among the economically less privileged. Knowledge of land grants and the corresponding acreage helps to solidify the understanding of land policies during that period, which is essential for the Texas Surveyors Exam.