Question
James K. Polk, speech that announced the discovery of gold in California, “Fourth Annual Message” (excerpts), December 5, 1848
"It was known that mines of the precious metals existed to a considerable extent in California at the time of its acquisition. Recent discoveries render it probable that these mines are more extensive and valuable than was anticipated. The accounts of the abundance of gold in that territory are of such an extraordinary character as would scarcely command belief were they not corroborated by the authentic reports of officers in the public service who have visited the mineral district and derived the facts which they detail from personal observation. Reluctant to credit the reports in general circulation as to the quantity of gold, the officer commanding our forces in California visited the mineral district in July last for the purpose of obtaining accurate information on the subject. His report to the War Department of the result of his examination and the facts obtained on the spot is herewith laid before Congress. When he visited the country there were about 4,000 persons engaged in collecting gold. There is every reason to believe that the number of persons so employed has since been augmented. The explorations already made warrant the belief that the supply is very large and that gold is found at various places in an extensive district of country."
Constructed Response Question
Using President Polk's speech as a primary source, explain and cite evidence to support the motivation of settlers moving across the country to California.
Answers
GPT-4o mini
In President James K. Polk's "Fourth Annual Message," delivered on December 5, 1848, the discovery of gold in California serves as a pivotal motivation for settlers moving westward. Polk's speech highlights the immense potential for wealth that the gold mines in California present, which galvanized many individuals and families to undertake the arduous journey across the country.
One primary piece of evidence from Polk's speech is the description of the "extraordinary character" of the accounts regarding the abundance of gold discovered in California. Polk states, “The accounts of the abundance of gold in that territory are of such an extraordinary character as would scarcely command belief were they not corroborated by the authentic reports of officers in the public service.” This indicates that credible reports from those in authority validated the claims about gold, making it an appealing prospect for settlers who sought fortune and a better life.
Additionally, Polk notes that at the time of his message, “there were about 4,000 persons engaged in collecting gold,” suggesting that the news of gold had already attracted a sizable population seeking opportunity. The reference to the “number of persons so employed has since been augmented” further underscores the idea that the promise of wealth motivated not only individuals but also entire communities to migrate.
Polk’s mention of the “explorations already made” and the resulting belief in a “very large” supply of gold indicates a burgeoning movement fueled by optimism and the desire for prosperity. He states that gold is “found at various places in an extensive district of country,” implying that the potential for discovery and wealth extended beyond isolated locations and encouraged a widespread rush to California.
In summary, President Polk's speech articulates the motivations behind the migration to California through the lens of opportunity and wealth creation. The credible reports of gold and the growing number of individuals engaging in gold collection illustrate how the promise of prosperity drove settlers across the country during this pivotal time in American history.
One primary piece of evidence from Polk's speech is the description of the "extraordinary character" of the accounts regarding the abundance of gold discovered in California. Polk states, “The accounts of the abundance of gold in that territory are of such an extraordinary character as would scarcely command belief were they not corroborated by the authentic reports of officers in the public service.” This indicates that credible reports from those in authority validated the claims about gold, making it an appealing prospect for settlers who sought fortune and a better life.
Additionally, Polk notes that at the time of his message, “there were about 4,000 persons engaged in collecting gold,” suggesting that the news of gold had already attracted a sizable population seeking opportunity. The reference to the “number of persons so employed has since been augmented” further underscores the idea that the promise of wealth motivated not only individuals but also entire communities to migrate.
Polk’s mention of the “explorations already made” and the resulting belief in a “very large” supply of gold indicates a burgeoning movement fueled by optimism and the desire for prosperity. He states that gold is “found at various places in an extensive district of country,” implying that the potential for discovery and wealth extended beyond isolated locations and encouraged a widespread rush to California.
In summary, President Polk's speech articulates the motivations behind the migration to California through the lens of opportunity and wealth creation. The credible reports of gold and the growing number of individuals engaging in gold collection illustrate how the promise of prosperity drove settlers across the country during this pivotal time in American history.