Khan Academy: Ap Us History: 1865 1898: The American West: The Gold Rush

Describes the impact of the California Gold Rush of 1848 which brought hundreds of thousands of gold-seeking migrants to the region. This massive influx of people to a place with little law enforcement and no infrastructure led to clashes between whites and other cultures, contributing to criminal activity and racial prejudice. Native people were targeted by the first state government for removal. After a few years, gold prospecting was replaced by large mining companies. Includes questions for students at end.