Free
The Gold Rush began something big – and diverse. To this day, California has people from many ethnic backgrounds. That diversity can be traced back to the Gold Rush.
People came from all over. They came from Asia, Latin America, and Europe to California, hoping to get rich and have a better life. Americans from the eastern United States also moved there. Very different people all had to live together. They came from different cultures and religions. Some were rich and some were poor. Immigration made California the most diverse society ever. It also caused many challenges.
All the newcomers wanted a new chance. Some found it by staking claims. Some built businesses or started farms. Women, too, found more opportunity in California than in other places.
