500
In 1849, gold was discovered in California, which at the time had 14,000 people. Dreams of striking it rich caused thousands to head west. Few found gold. Most struggled to survive. In 1855, the Gold Rush was over. Many moved on in search of new gold fields. But, by that time, California had almost half a million people. And, it had become the 31st state.
a. The Gold Rush changed California forever.
b. Gold can be found in California.
c. California is a nice place to live.
a. The Gold Rush changed California forever.