California Gold Rush

The California Gold Rush, which began in 1848, was a pivotal event in American history that sparked mass migration to California. Gold discoveries at Sutter’s Mill led to an influx of prospectors, known as “49ers,” seeking fortune. The Gold Rush transformed California’s economy, accelerated its statehood, and reshaped the nation’s development. Gold became a symbol of wealth, driving social, political, and cultural change. Explore the impact of the California Gold Rush on the economy, the people involved, and the legacy it left on American history.