What was the main economic motivation for those moving into California?

economic growth based on finding gold

none of the above

economic growth based on selling supplies to travelers

1 answer

The main economic motivation for those moving into California during the mid-19th century was primarily "economic growth based on finding gold." This was particularly evident during the California Gold Rush, which began in 1848, when thousands of prospectors and settlers flocked to the region in hopes of striking it rich by discovering gold. While selling supplies to travelers was also a significant business opportunity for some, the initial drive for migration was largely centered around the prospect of mining gold.