Feb 18 - Do Now - Gold Rush

What year did the discovery of gold in California occur?

• 1848

• 1850

• 1849

• 1851

Answer explanation

The discovery of gold in California occurred in 1848, when James W. Marshall found gold at Sutter's Mill, sparking the California Gold Rush. This event marked a significant turning point in American history.

What nickname was given to the prospectors who arrived in California during the Gold Rush?

• Gold Diggers

• Forty-niners

• Gold Seekers

• Prospectors

Answer explanation

The nickname 'Forty-niners' refers to the prospectors who flocked to California in 1849 during the Gold Rush, seeking fortune. This term specifically highlights the year when the gold rush peaked.

Which group of immigrants faced significant violence and prejudice during the Gold Rush?

• Chinese immigrants

• European immigrants

• African immigrants

• Canadian immigrants

Answer explanation

During the Gold Rush, Chinese immigrants faced significant violence and prejudice, including discriminatory laws and mob attacks, as they were often scapegoated for economic hardships, making them the most targeted group among immigrants.

What was a common method used by prospectors to extract gold from silt deposits?

• Using metal detectors

• Mining with explosives

• Drilling

• Gold panning

Answer explanation

Gold panning was a common method used by prospectors to extract gold from silt deposits. This technique involves using a pan to wash away lighter materials, allowing the heavier gold to settle at the bottom.

Who was the first governor of California who declared contempt for the native population?

• Peter Hardeman Burnett

• James W. Marshall

• John Sutter

• Leland Stanford

Answer explanation

Peter Hardeman Burnett, the first governor of California, openly expressed contempt for the native population, advocating for their removal and reflecting the attitudes of his time.

What was the primary reason for the high crime rates in the goldfields?

• Lack of law enforcement

• Abundance of gold

• Presence of vigilantes

• High population density

Answer explanation

The primary reason for high crime rates in the goldfields was the lack of law enforcement. With few authorities present to maintain order, criminal activities flourished, leading to increased violence and lawlessness.

Which city experienced rapid growth due to the Gold Rush?

• San Francisco

• Los Angeles

• San Diego

• Sacramento

Answer explanation

San Francisco experienced rapid growth during the Gold Rush as it became a key port for miners and settlers. Its population surged, transforming it into a major city in California, unlike the other options listed.

What was the main reason individual gold-diggers could not compete with major mining conglomerates?

• Complex extraction techniques

• Lack of gold

• Government regulations

• High taxes

Answer explanation

Individual gold-diggers struggled to compete with major mining conglomerates primarily due to complex extraction techniques. These techniques require advanced technology and expertise that individual miners typically lack.

What was the effect of the Gold Rush on California's demographics?

• Decrease in population

• Dramatic reshaping

• Minimal change

• Stagnation

Answer explanation

The Gold Rush led to a massive influx of people seeking fortune, resulting in a dramatic reshaping of California's demographics. This period saw a diverse population growth, including many immigrants, transforming the state's cultural landscape.

What was the duration of the California Gold Rush?

• 1851 to 1856

• 1850 to 1860

• 1849 to 1859

• 1848 to 1855

Answer explanation

The California Gold Rush began in 1848 when gold was discovered at Sutter's Mill and lasted until 1855, marking a significant period of migration and economic growth in California.