* Hard work and perseverance: Homesteading was a difficult and demanding way of life. Homesteaders worked long hours, often in harsh conditions. They had to be willing to sacrifice and persevere in order to succeed.
* Resourcefulness and adaptability: Homesteaders had to be resourceful and adaptable in order to survive. They had to be able to make do with limited resources, and they had to be willing to change their plans as needed.
* Community support: Homesteaders often relied on the support of their communities in order to succeed. They shared resources, advice, and labor with each other. They also banded together to protect themselves from common threats, such as pests and predators.
* Government support: The government played a significant role in the success of many homesteaders. The government provided land, loans, and other support to homesteaders. They also established agricultural experiment stations and extension services to help homesteaders learn new farming techniques.
* Technological advances: Technological advances also played a role in the success of homesteaders. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, there were many technological advances that made homesteading easier, such as the reaper, the combine harvester, and the tractor.
With a strong work ethic, adaptability, support, innovation, and perseverance, many homesteading colonies achieved great success from modest beginnings.