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What event is referred to as the California Gold Rush?
A period of migration to California for agriculture
Between 1848-1850 when discovery of gold led to population increase
A sustained campaign for mining rights
Efforts of miners to unionize for better conditions
The correct answer is: Between 1848-1850 when discovery of gold led to population increase
The California Gold Rush refers specifically to the period between 1848 and 1850 when the discovery of gold at Sutter's Mill in California attracted a massive influx of people seeking wealth and opportunity. This event significantly transformed California's demographics, leading to a rapid population increase as tens of thousands of individuals, often referred to as "forty-niners," migrated to the region in hopes of striking it rich. This migration was not solely for agricultural purposes, as stated in one of the other options, but was primarily driven by the allure of gold. Additionally, while there were campaigns for mining rights and efforts for miners to unionize, these activities were not the defining characteristic of the Gold Rush itself. The event is distinguished by the surge in population and the economic boom that it generated, along with its lasting impact on California’s development and broader American history.