Discover Why California Is Called the Golden State

California is called the Golden State for a reason, but do you know the reason? California has been called the Golden State since the mid-1800s, and yet it was officially recognized as the state nickname in 1968. This beautiful state has many vibrant gold and yellow things, including an important event, the California gold rush. Are you ready to learn more? Follow along to discover the many reasons why California is called the Golden State.

The California Gold Rush

One of the biggest reasons California is nicknamed the Golden State is because of the California Gold Rush, which occurred between 1848 and 1855. This massive rush began when James W. Marshall at Sutter’s Mill in Coloma, California reported the finding of gold. In no time, over 300,000 people migrated to California in hopes of finding gold and striking it rich. Because of the California Gold Rush and the economy’s boom, California became a state in 1850.

Sadly though, not all of the gold rush’s effects were positive. For example, although some people did strike rich, and the economy was boosted, many Native Americans suffered. The California Gold Rush led to the starvation of many native Californians already struggling.

Climate and Weather

Another reason this state is often nicknamed the Golden State is because of its climate and weather. California is very sunny and filled with warm days! For example, the hottest recorded temperature in the state is 134°F. This is also the world record for the hottest air temperature, which was recorded in Furnace Creek at Death Valley on July 10, 1913. California also has some of the sunniest cities in the country. For instance, Los Angeles sees about 275 days of sunshine every year.

The Golden Gate Bridge

People from all over the world travel far to see the iconic Golden Gate Bridge in person. This massive bridge is located in San Francisco and has been seen in many amazing movies and television series. The Golden Gate Bridge is a long and bright suspension bridge. This bridge connects San Francisco with Marin County.

The construction of this impressive bridge began on January 5, 1933, and the bridge was completed on April 19, 1937. A little over a month later on May 27, 1937, the bridge opened. This bridge is highly used and very important. It sees daily traffic of about 88,716. It is 1.7 miles long, 90 feet wide, and 746 feet tall. This impressive bridge was designated as a California Historical Landmark on June 18, 1987.

Golden Trout

Animals also play a large role in why the state is nicknamed the Golden State. For example, a beautiful fish found throughout California is the golden trout. It’s a bright orange and yellow trout mainly found in Golden Trout Creek in California. This fish is so important to California, that it became the state’s official freshwater fish in 1947.

Golden trout aren’t entirely orange or yellow. Most have red horizontal bands on their bodies. These impressive and stunning fish are small, only reaching about 6 to 12 inches long. If you catch a golden trout over 12 inches long, it’s an amazing accomplishment!

Golden Poppy

Have you ever seen a field of golden poppy flowers? They are common in California and well worth a hike. Golden poppies are the state’s official flower. Another name for this lovely plant is the California poppy. This flower is also sometimes referred to as a cup of gold. These lovely plants are native to the United States and Mexico. Although typically orange or yellow, these cup-shaped flowers are sometimes white or pink.

If you want to see these beautiful flowers bloom in large groups, visit Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve during late winter and early spring. If you visit this reserve though, keep in mind you are not allowed to pick the California poppies.

The Garibaldi

California is truly a Golden State. Not only are there golden flowers, structures, history, and freshwater fish but also marine fish! The Garibaldi, also known as the marine goldfish is a lovely orange fish in the subtropical northeastern part of the Pacific Ocean. It is an important fish for the state and is protected in Californian coastal waters. The Garibaldi is also the state’s official marine fish. Most of these gorgeous fish live in reefs. You can see them if you take a glass tour boat in California.

The photo featured at the top of this post is © canadastock/Shutterstock.com