During which years did the Gold Rush take place?

The Gold Rush took place primarily from 1848 to 1856, marking a significant period in California's history. It began with James W. Marshall's discovery of gold at Sutter's Mill in January 1848, which led to an influx of thousands of prospectors, known as "forty-niners," arriving in California in search of fortune. This massive migration had profound effects on the state’s economy, population growth, and societal structure. By the mid-1850s, the initial excitement and rush had started to wane, although mining continued to some extent beyond that time. This period was crucial not only for California but also for the entire United States, as it played a pivotal role in westward expansion and the shaping of the American identity during the 19th century. The other options do not correspond with the widely recognized timeframe of the Gold Rush, which is firmly anchored between 1848 and 1856.