a What was the purpose of the Morrill Act? OA it gave land in Kansas to African Americans willing to settle and farm it B it gave federa land to the states to help finance agricultural colleges OC it gave 160 acres of free land to anyone willing to cultivate it for five years D it gave federa land to railroad companies to encourage railroad building

The correct answer is **B. It gave federal land to the states to help finance agricultural colleges.**<br /><br />The Morrill Act of 1862 granted each state a certain amount of federal land, which could then be sold to raise funds for establishing and supporting "land-grant" colleges. These colleges were focused on teaching agriculture, mechanical arts, and military science, making practical education more accessible.<br />