How did the Gold Rush help in settling the entire Midwest and Western United States?

The California Gold Rush sparked a movement west, which only further ignited manifest destiny. People saw the opportunity to stake a claim of their own and truly pursue the "American Dream" out west. This new discovery and the abundance of wealth to be had further solidified support of Polk's decision to move westward.

Explanation:

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answer; (a) he was a u.s senator for 38 years;