What major change occurred in Georgia in 1802?

In 1802, Georgia made a significant decision to cede its western lands to the federal government, which marked a pivotal moment in its history. This action was part of a broader movement involving land claims and territorial organization in the early United States. By ceding these lands, Georgia aimed to settle disputes over land ownership and expand its economic opportunities through federal support in organizing these territories.

This decision also facilitated a stronger federal presence in the region, allowing for the sale and settlement of land to newcomers and helping to establish the state’s economic development in the years that followed. It is important to consider the context of land claims at the time, as disputes were common among various states, and ceding territories was seen as a means to promote growth and stability.

The other options, while relevant to Georgia's history, did not occur specifically in the year 1802. For example, Georgia had already joined the Union in 1788, adopted previous constitutions prior to 1802, and while new counties were often established in response to population growth and land cessions, there was no significant establishment of new counties specifically tied to the events of that year.