Quick Scoop

The California Gold Rush began on January 24, 1848 , when gold was discovered at Sutter’s Mill in Coloma, California. It peaked in 1852 and was largely over by the late 1850s.

Key Dates

  • Start: January 24, 1848.
  • Peak: 1852.
  • End: By the end of the 1850s, the rush had mostly run its course.

Why It Matters

The discovery triggered a huge migration to California, with more than 300,000 people arriving during the Gold Rush. It also helped speed up California’s path to statehood in 1850.