The Forty-Niners: Who Came and Why — Reading Comprehension

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Grades

Standards

D2.HIS.2.3-5
D2.HIS.3.3-5
RI.4.3
RI.4.4
W.4.2

About This Reader

This engaging reading passage explores the story of the Forty-Niners and their journey during the California Gold Rush. Students will learn about the events of 1848-1850s, the reasons people traveled west, and the challenges they faced. The passage uses a clear, chronological narrative and highlights cause-and-effect relationships, making it ideal for building historical understanding. The passage is aligned with C3 Framework and Common Core standards, and is accompanied by a glossary, multiple-choice quiz, writing activities, a timeline, and a graphic organizer. For accessibility and engagement, it also includes a read aloud audio and a Spanish translation. The passage is designed to enhance literacy skills while teaching about Westward Expansion, the spirit of adventure, and how the Gold Rush changed the nation. Key vocabulary is taught in context, and students are encouraged to analyze, make connections, and draw comparisons between the past and present.

CONTENT PREVIEW

"49ers"
Source: Library of Congress - Crawford, Will, 1869-1944

The California Gold Rush began in 1848 when gold was found at Sutter’s Mill. News of gold spread quickly across the United States. By 1849, thousands of people, called prospectors, traveled to California. They hoped to find gold and become rich. These people became known as the Forty-Niners because so many arrived in 1849.

The journey to California was long and hard. Some went by wagon across the land. Others sailed by ship. Travelers faced many dangers. There were rough roads, storms, and sometimes not enough food or water. People from all over the world came, not just Americans. Some came from China, Mexico, and even Europe. They all wanted to find gold.

When the Forty-Niners reached California, they set up camps near rivers and streams. They used pans to wash the dirt and look for gold. This was called panning. If they were lucky, they found small pieces of gold called nuggets. Most did not become rich. Life in the camps was tough. People worked hard every day. There were few laws, so sometimes there were problems with stealing or fighting.

The Gold Rush changed California. Towns grew quickly as more people arrived. San Francisco grew from a small town to a big city. Many people stayed in California even after the gold was gone. They built new homes, started businesses, and helped California become a state in 1850.

The Forty-Niners showed great bravery and determination. They traveled far for a new life. They worked together and built new communities. One traveler wrote, “We have come a long way, but we hope for a better future.”

The Gold Rush did not just bring gold. It brought people together from many places. It changed the land and the people who lived there. California would never be the same again.

Interesting Fact: Levi Strauss, who sold sturdy pants to miners, later started the famous blue jeans company!

What started the Gold Rush?

Gold found at Sutter’s MillA new railroad openedDiscovery of silverThe Oregon Trail

Who were the Forty-Niners?

Gold seekers in 1849Texas settlersCowboysFur trappers

What city grew quickly during the Gold Rush?

San FranciscoNew YorkBostonChicago

Why did people travel to California?

To find goldTo fishFor farmingTo hunt buffalo

What tool did miners use to find gold?

A panA plowA compassA shovel

What is one effect of the Gold Rush?