What was the primary motivation for settlers during the Land Runs?

The primary motivation for settlers during the Land Runs was opportunities for wealth and land ownership. The Land Runs, particularly those in Oklahoma, were events where individuals could claim land for farming or settlement, often in previously unoccupied areas. The promise of land ownership was particularly appealing because it represented not only a potential source of income through agriculture but also the chance for a better quality of life and social status.

These events were initially driven by policies such as the Homestead Act, which incentivized westward expansion by offering parcels of land to settlers who would cultivate it. The possibility of acquiring land at little to no cost drew many people, including families and single individuals, who sought to improve their circumstances and even achieve their dreams of owning property. This quest for land and economic opportunity played a significant role in shaping Oklahoma's demographic and cultural landscape.