When the great California Gold Rush began in 1849, thousands of people from all over the world rushed to the gold fields in search of easy riches. Most people never became wealthy but returned to their homes penniless. A few struck it rich in the fields and became millionaires with fine
homes in San Francisco. The most money, however, was made by the many merchants who sold goods to the miners.
Who made most of the money during the Gold Rush of '49?