What was the primary purpose of the rectangular survey system established in 1785?

The primary purpose of the rectangular survey system established in 1785 was to provide a faster and simpler method of land description than the metes and bounds system that was commonly used at the time. The rectangular survey system divides land into a grid of squares or rectangles, which allows for a uniform and easily understandable way to describe and locate parcels of land. This system uses a series of meridians and baselines to create townships and sections, making it much more efficient for administration and sale of public lands compared to the more complex and often ambiguous metes and bounds system that relied on natural landmarks and specified measurements.

This simplified method not only facilitated land sales and settlement but also helped to standardize land descriptions across different states and territories as the nation expanded westward. The clarity and efficiency of the rectangular survey system played a crucial role in land management and development during this period of U.S. history.