The California gold rush is undoubtedly one of the major events that shaped the western United States. In a period of civil division and unrest, the gold rush brought about a renewed drive for expansion and entrepreneurship in the U.S. While often criticized for staunch immigrant racism, economic corruption, and environmental devastation, this era ushered forth a new chapter in American history and forever set the foundation for the California enterprising spirit.
Immigrant racism was a major problem during the time of the gold rush in California. Immigrant Chinese, Native American Indians, Mexicans, and South Americans alike were all discriminated against during this period. In this time prior to the civil war, the drive for wealth in the gold fields was the major force behind the segregation of races. Chinese and other immigrants were shunned for fear that their willingness to work for lower wages would deprive whites from jobs in the bustling mining industry. In the......
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