The California Gold Rush

The California Gold Rush began in 1848 when James Marshall discovered gold at Sutter's Mill. This discovery led to a massive migration of people, known as the 49ers, seeking fortune in California. Boom towns emerged, characterized by chaos and high prices, but many miners left empty-handed. The Gold Rush significantly increased California's population and spurred infrastructure development, including the Transcontinental Railroad. It also attracted immigrants, particularly from China, who faced severe discrimination. Despite the challenges, the Gold Rush transformed the American West and paved the way for westward expansion.

Who discovered gold at Sutter's Mill, sparking the California Gold Rush?

• John Sutter

• James Marshall

• Samuel Brannan

• Levi Strauss

What nickname was given to the people who rushed to California in search of gold?

• The Pioneers

• The 49ers

• The Gold Seekers

• The 48ers

What challenges did the 49ers face in the boom towns?

• Stable and secure jobs

• Limited supplies and high prices

• Peaceful and orderly communities

• Abundant resources and low prices

How did the Gold Rush impact California's population by 1860?

• It doubled to 40,000

• It increased to over 380,000

• It remained the same

• It decreased significantly

What major infrastructure project was spurred by the Gold Rush?

• The Panama Canal

• The Transcontinental Railroad

• The Erie Canal

• The Hoover Dam

Which group of immigrants faced significant discrimination during the Gold Rush?

• Irish immigrants

• Chinese immigrants

• Mexican immigrants

• German immigrants

What were some of the discriminatory practices faced by Chinese immigrants?

• Higher taxes and restricted jobs

• Exemption from immigration laws

• Free land and business grants

• Equal pay and job opportunities

Approximately how much gold was discovered during the California Gold Rush?

• 1,000,000 pounds

• 750,000 pounds

• 500,000 pounds

• 250,000 pounds

What was a significant outcome of the Gold Rush on California towns?

• They turned into ghost towns

• They became bustling cities

• They remained small and isolated

• They were abandoned

What lasting impact did the Gold Rush have on the United States?

• It led to the decline of the West

• It caused the East Coast to become more isolated

• It had no significant impact

• It paved the way for westward expansion