The Gold Rush: Dreams, Disappointment, and Change

The video explores the discovery of gold in California by James Marshall in 1848 and the subsequent gold rush that attracted thousands of people from around the world. Sam Brannan capitalized on the gold fever by selling mining supplies. The influx of people led to significant demographic changes in California, particularly in San Francisco. However, many miners, known as 49ers, faced challenges and competition, with few striking it rich.

Who discovered gold in Coloma, California, in 1848?

• Sam Brannan

• James Marshall

• A Native American

• John Sutter

What was Sam Brannan's plan to profit from the gold rush?

• To open a bank

• To buy land in California

• To sell mining supplies

• To mine gold himself

What motivated people from the East Coast to travel to California during the gold rush?

• The promise of a new government job

• The desire to escape the cold

• The opportunity to strike it rich

• The chance to own land

Which group of people were known as the '49ers'?

• Miners who arrived in 1849

• Native Americans in California

• Businessmen selling supplies

• Spanish settlers in California

What was the population of San Francisco by the end of 1849?

• 1,000

• 50,000

• 25,000

• 10,000

What was a major challenge faced by the 49ers during the gold rush?

• Intense competition and violence

• Harsh weather conditions

• High taxes

• Lack of food

Which group was particularly unwilling to share gold with others?

• Yankees

• Californios

• Native Americans

• Chinese immigrants