What was the requirement for recipients of the Fourth Class headright grants in Texas?

The correct answer pertains to the specific conditions set for recipients of the Fourth Class headright grants in Texas, which mandated that individuals must settle and reside on the land for three years. This requirement was part of Texas land laws aimed at encouraging settlement and development of the territory during a time when it was crucial to establish a stable population and improve land productivity.

By requiring a three-year residency, the law ensured that recipients would commit to the land, thereby promoting agricultural development and community stability. Establishing residency also helped in monitoring and managing land use, contributing to the overall growth of the region.

The other options outline conditions that, while relevant in context, do not apply directly to the Fourth Class headright grants. For instance, the requirement to cultivate a specific number of acres or the stipulation of a five-year residency were applicable under different circumstances or classifications of grants but not specifically to the Fourth Class grants. The choice regarding marital status does not reflect the specific eligibility criteria for these grants, which were focused primarily on residency and commitment to the land. Thus, the necessity to settle and reside for three years encapsulates the essence of the Fourth Class grants effectively.