c) Georgia

The first major U.S. gold strike occurred in 1828 in Georgia, predating the more famous California Gold Rush by two decades. This discovery in the southern Appalachian region triggered America’s first gold rush, attracting thousands of prospectors to the area. The Georgia gold rush led to the establishment of the U.S. Mint in Dahlonega and had significant social and economic impacts, including the tragic displacement of the Cherokee people in the Trail of Tears. This gold rush marked the beginning of the nation’s obsession with gold and its profound influence on American history.