This was a law passed by Congress under The Articles that set up a system for surveying and selling western lands.
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The Land Ordinance of 1785 had long-lasting effects on American land policy and westward expansion. It set a precedent for organizing territorial expansion and became a blueprint for public land sales. By dividing the new lands into townships and sections, it facilitated orderly development and settlement. Its emphasis on systematic planning reflected Enlightenment ideals and influenced urban planning concepts in America. Furthermore, it provided a way to fund public education through the allocation of land for schools within new townships.