The Impact of the Gold Rush on Native Americans of California

A Source Investigation

Sepia-tone photo of a woman standing outdoors, wearing a white long-sleeved shirt.

Sally Bell, survivor of the Needle Rock Massacre

Sepia-tone photo portrait of a person with shoulder-length hair wearing several necklaces and a beaded headband.

Nisenan survivor

Sepia-tone photo portrait of a man wearing a white shirt, suit jacket, and bow tie.

Jerry James, survivor of the Indian Island Massacre

Sepia-tone photo of a woman standing outdoors, wearing a long-sleeved shirt and cloth head covering.

Lucy Young, survivor of an attack at Fort Seward

This inquiry lesson provides primary sources, maps, images, and background history to offer teachers and students insight into a little-known but vitally important aspect of one of the most iconic events in American history—the California gold rush. Students will analyze sources to answer the question: Do American actions against California Native Americans during the gold rush meet the United Nations definition of genocide?

Lesson Information Academic Standards Essential Understandings