California Gold Rush
Definition
The California Gold Rush was a period of rapid migration to California following the discovery of gold in 1848. Thousands of people, known as '49ers, moved to the state hoping to strike it rich.
Analogy
Think of the California Gold Rush like a viral video today. Just as one person's post can suddenly attract millions of viewers from all over the world, news about gold in California spread quickly and attracted people from all corners of the globe.
Related terms
Prospecting: This is the first stage in mining for precious metals where explorers (prospectors) search for mineral deposits.
'49ers: These were the prospectors who arrived in California in 1849 during the Gold Rush.
Manifest Destiny: This is a belief that was prevalent during this time that American settlers were destined by God to expand across North America.
"California Gold Rush" appears in:
Subjects (1)
Study guides (4)
Practice Questions (6)
What was a major contrast between Oregon Trail migrants and those who participated in the California Gold Rush?
Who were often in conflict with miners during the California Gold Rush?
What was an immediate environmental consequence of the California Gold Rush in 1849?
What was the primary environmental consequence of the California Gold Rush in the mid-1800s?
What was a significant environmental impact of the California Gold Rush?
Which technological innovation most directly contributed to environmental degradation during California Gold Rush period?
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