Describe the events that led to the opening of the Unassigned Lands to settlers.

Answer:

Responses may vary but should include some or all of the following information: Interest in opening up the land first came after articles in the Chicago Times outlined the opportunities available to settlers in the Unassigned Lands. Boomer supporters like David Lewis Payne, a pioneer and politician, and William Couch pushed into the Unassigned Lands before they were legally open. Their removal and arrest created even more awareness of the lands and a desire to aid in opening the lands for settlement. The tipping point came when the Springer Amendment was passed, allowing the president to declare the Unassigned Lands and Indian Territory open for settlement. Once the lands were open, a land rush occurred. The area became populated, leading the way for statehood down the line.