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American History : The Gold Rush

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One of the most beneficial events in American history is the California Gold Rush. The Gold Rush started in 1848 when it was discovered that California Rivers harbored gold inside them. This attracted many Americans across the United States, thus causing a massive migration to California. People from across the nation put their lives on hold in hopes of striking gold in California. For many, the journey took months and the risk of death was steadily present. Dangers were everywhere- from Native American attacks to getting lost on the trail. It was a risk, however, that many deemed worthy. The Gold Rush is a positive turning point in our nation’s growth for many reasons. It helped our nation achieve Manifest Destiny, it allowed the population to grow in California, and it also put California on the map. Although the California Gold Rush has many positives aspects, it holds negative traits as well. Manifest Destiny is defined as the old American belief that God’s plan is for the United States to rule and settle North America coast-to-coast. We see this throughout history as the white settlers drive out thousands of Native Americans from their land. The reasons behind this lust for land are because the land is beautiful, it offered opportunity for expansion, it offered natural resources, and it also helped accommodate America’s growing population. Americans sought out “the fulfilment of our manifest destiny to overspread the continent allotted by Providence for the free

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