The Gold Rush Changes California Forever — Reading Comprehension

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Grades

Standards

D2.HIS.1.3-5
D2.HIS.2.3-5
D2.HIS.16.3-5
RI.4.3
RI.4.4
W.4.2

About This Reader

This engaging U.S. History reading passage explores how the Gold Rush changed California forever. Students will learn about the discovery of gold at Sutter’s Mill in 1848, the journey of the '49ers, and the massive changes that followed. The story uses simple language, clear structure, and grade-appropriate vocabulary to build foundational literacy and history knowledge. Activities include a multiple-choice quiz, writing prompts, a timeline, glossary, and a graphic organizer. The passage aligns with C3 Framework and Common Core standards. A Spanish translation and read aloud audio are included for accessibility. Perfect for building understanding of westward expansion, migration, and cause-and-effect in U.S. History.

CONTENT PREVIEW

Springfield, Tuolumne County.
Source: Library of Congress - Britton & Rey

In 1848, gold was found at Sutter’s Mill in California. This news spread quickly across the United States and even to other countries. People rushed to California, hoping to get rich. These people were called prospectors.

Thousands of men and women left their homes to travel west. Some walked or rode horses. Others sailed by ship. The journey was long and hard. Many faced sickness, hunger, and rough weather. Still, they kept going. They wanted to find fortune in the goldfields.

When the '49ers arrived, California changed fast. Small camps turned into busy towns. Miners built tents and wooden cabins. Stores and restaurants opened to serve the new people. Towns like San Francisco grew overnight. In 1849, the city had only a few hundred people. By 1850, it had more than 25,000!

Mining was hard work. Prospectors used pans to wash river sand and look for gold. Some used picks and shovels to dig in the earth. Many did not find much gold. Still, they worked together and helped each other. Some became very rich, but most did not. A miner said, “I am covered in dust from head to foot. My back aches and my hands are sore. But I hope to strike it rich.”

The Gold Rush changed California forever. More people moved west. Railroads and roads were built. New communities grew. People from many backgrounds came together. They brought new foods, customs, and cultures. California soon became a state in 1850.

The Gold Rush also caused problems. Native Americans lost their land. The land and rivers were damaged by mining. Still, many people believed that anyone could succeed if they worked hard.

The Gold Rush showed bravery and the power of working together. It helped shape the United States. Today, California is known for its rich history and diversity.

Interesting Fact: Some people found gold by accident while fishing or farming during the Gold Rush!

When was gold discovered in California?

1848177618501865

Who were the '49ers?

Gold seekers in 1849Native AmericansRailroad workersStore owners

What city grew quickly during the Gold Rush?

San FranciscoNew YorkChicagoBoston

Why did people travel to California?

To find goldTo see familyFor vacationTo escape war

What happened because of mining?

Land was damagedFewer townsNo new roadsGold disappeared

How did the Gold Rush help California?