The California Gold Rush played a huge role in the development of the United States. It has influenced the cities, economy, trade, population, cultures and many other aspects of the country. People from all over the world came to “get rich”; some pursued that dream, others simply created a new lifestyle. James Marshall was building a sawmill on the American River and found the first pieces of gold in California. The exciting news broke after Sam Brannan had a bottle full of gold and ran through the streets shouting with joy. The news caught the attention of many people. Many newspapers published discussions of the discovery of gold, but many did not believe that gold had actually been found. People from all over the world started planning their trips to California after hearing the amazing news (Sheldon). Travel to California was not easy or safe. Three main routes were used to travel from around the world, and all took more than three months to reach California. Many problems were faced during the journeys; Cholera killed many people because they didn't have doctors to treat them like they do today. Seasickness, insect infestation and climate made travel very unpleasant (Harvard). Diversity in California was most affected by the gold rush. Three hundred thousand immigrants had come to California in 1854; California became the thirty-first state in 1850 due to enormous demographic change (History Channel). Many different beliefs and over fifty different languages ​​were developed; they are still practiced in California today. The streets of California are full of different fashion, interactions with different people and races (Lynch). The art reflects the difference...... middle of paper......9 travels through many major mining towns (Harvard). The memory of the race is celebrated on January 24th of each year. “Eureka” is their state motto; means “I found gold”. Californians have a reputation for being risk-takers. Tourists from all over the world come to visit the monuments and see how everything used to be. Today there are many opportunities available and people can mine gold just like miners once did. The California Gold Rush left behind both positive and negative effects. Some people became wealthy and others simply moved forward with a new lifestyle. The railroads that were inspired to be built during the race play an important role in today's transportation. The diversity and growth of cities have been hit the hardest. Race has helped shape the entire nation as a whole and plays a huge role in the history of the United States.