Question

Read the passage. Gold was found in California in 1849. This discovery fired the imaginations of many people, and it greatly affected California’s history. The Gold Rush that followed drew prospectors from all over the world. Those prospectors later became known as Fortyniners. The arrival of this group stimulated economic growth and the expansion of the railroad system. Which of the following omitted details would contribute most to the passage’s main idea—that the discovery of gold had a great effect on California’s history?
A.
California borders the Pacific Ocean.

B.
California became known as the Golden State.

C.
California is our third-largest state.

D.
California also is home to earthquakes and landslides.

Answer 1

A.  Incorrect- States location of California. No clue on discovery of gold.

California borders the Pacific Ocean.

B.  Correct. The term 'Golden' gives a starter on the gold discovery later.

California became known as the Golden State.

C.  Incorrect. Comparing size of states.

California is our third-largest state.

D.  Incorrect. Out of topic, hinting natural disasters.

California also is home to earthquakes and landslides.