Set 1: Inferences
Explanation
PASSAGE
In 1848, gold was discovered at Sutter's Mill in California. Within months, word spread across the nation, and by 1849, thousands of people—later called 'Forty-Niners'—had abandoned their farms, jobs, and families to seek their fortunes in the gold fields.
What does the passage imply about the Forty-Niners?
Detailed Explanation
This question asks you to draw a logical conclusion from the text. The passage states people 'abandoned their farms, jobs, and families' (sacrifice) 'to seek their fortunes' (hope of wealth). This describes voluntary risk-taking for potential reward. A valid inference must be supported by evidence in the passage, even if not stated directly. Look for clues in the text that strongly suggest the answer. Avoid conclusions that require assumptions beyond what's written. Valid inferences are strongly supported by multiple pieces of evidence in the text. Be cautious of choices that go too far beyond what the passage actually states. The best inference is the one most directly supported by textual evidence.
Key Evidence:
• "abandoned their farms, jobs, and families"
• "seek their fortunes"
Why others are wrong: A (They abandoned various jobs, not necessarily mining.), B (They chose to go; no government coercion mentioned.), C (Technology is not discussed.).