 |
 |
||
         
|
 |
Spreading the News The news spread like wildfire locally. "Gold on the American River!" But
news to other regions spread slowly in 1848. Accounts of extraordinary finds were relayed
by the word-of-mouth of travelers. Newspapers from California's early presses responded at
first with cautionary reports, then unbridled enthusiasm. Trading ships carried the word
to Hawaii, China, Mexico and Chile. Letters and wild rumors eventually made their way back
to the Bottom: Sam Brannan’s Printing Press |
|
 |
|
   |
|
|
|
|
|
      |
|||
eastern United
States and Europe, adding fuel to the fever. This was the first time in history that this
most precious metal was available for the taking by anyone and everyone. The gold was
literally free for all. When 220 ounces of gold were carried back to Washington D.C.,
President Polk confirmed the extraordinary rumors to Congress in December 1848, and the
world responded. The rush was on.