California is a big state with an even bigger story. It grew leaps and bounds between the gold rush and 1900. People from across America and around the world moved there because it was full of opportunity. Today it's still a place where people from different backgrounds come to live their dreams. This primary source text builds students reading skills and social studies content knowledge. The intriguing primary source maps, letters, documents, and images provide authentic nonfiction reading materials and keep students interested in learning. Text features include a glossary, index, captions, sidebars, and table of contents. This book connects to California state studies standards and the NCSS/C3 Framework and features appropriately leveled text to meet the needs of students reading at different levels. Additional features include Read and Respond and a culminating activity that prompt students to dive deeper into the text for additional reading and learning.