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.

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.