The California Gold Rush, which spanned from 1848 to 1855, was a frenzied period of mass migration and economic upheaval. Triggered by the discovery of gold at Sutter's Mill, the rush saw hundreds of thousands of prospectors from around the world flocking to California in search of riches. The promise of instant wealth fueled a wave of excitement and chaos as miners employed various methods to extract gold from the earth. The influx of people transformed California's landscape, giving rise to boomtowns, bustling ports, and a diverse society. While some struck it rich, many more faced disappointment and hardship. The Gold Rush left an enduring legacy, shaping California's identity as the "Golden State" and leaving a mark on the global economy and collective imagination.