James K. Polk, speech that announced the discovery of gold in California, “Fourth Annual Message” (excerpts), December 5, 1848

Question

"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.
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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

Answer 1

President Polk's speech announcing the discovery of gold in California reveals significant motivations for settlers moving westward during the mid-19th century. The primary catalyst for this migration was the prospect of wealth and opportunity associated with the discovery of gold, commonly known as the California Gold Rush.

In his address, 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 who have visited the mineral district." This statement emphasizes the credibility of the rumors surrounding the gold discovered in California, suggesting that the accounts of wealth were persuasive enough to inspire widespread belief and action among potential settlers. The mention of "officers in the public service" corroborating the findings adds an element of legitimacy, encouraging settlers to pursue what they hoped would be transformative economic opportunities.

Polk further reinforces the motivations for migration by noting that "there were about 4,000 persons engaged in collecting gold," which indicates an already significant influx of individuals drawn to California by the promise of wealth. The phrase "there is every reason to believe that the number of persons so employed has since been augmented" suggests that the desire for gold was not only strong but was also rapidly increasing, as more people were likely motivated to seek their fortunes in response to the news of the gold discoveries.

Additionally, Polk's use of phrases like "the explorations already made warrant the belief that the supply is very large" indicates confidence in the potential for ongoing wealth in California. This belief in a plentiful supply of gold would have been a powerful motivator for individuals and families to leave their homes in search of prosperity in the largely uncharted territories of the west.

In conclusion, President Polk's speech presents clear evidence that the motivation for settlers moving to California was primarily driven by the allure of gold and the hope of economic opportunity, which was amplified by credible reports from military officers and the growing number of people engaging in gold collection. This monumental movement toward California was ultimately sparked by the promise of riches that seemed intensely achievable and abundantly available.