What significant act provided federal lands for establishing colleges in the United States?

The Morrill Act is significant for its role in providing federal land to establish colleges in the United States, specifically for the promotion of agricultural and mechanical arts. Enacted in 1862, the act aimed to enhance education in the sciences and practical fields, which was crucial for the development of a skilled workforce and the advancement of American society during the industrial revolution. The land granted by the federal government was often sold or leased, generating funds that could be used to build and sustain these institutions, leading to the creation of numerous land-grant colleges across the nation. This act not only expanded access to higher education but also laid the groundwork for the modern university system.