The Gold Rush

Originally broadcast on PBS as part of the American Experience series, Randall MacLowry's The Gold Rush employs the usual medley of narration (by PBS regular Michael Murphy), archival stills, newspaper accounts, and scholarly talking heads to paint a vivid, enlightening picture of the vast movement of hopeful prospectors to California in the late 1840s and early 1850s after the discovery of gold, while also adding a human touch through letters, personal photos, and memoirs spotlighting various individuals caught up in the gold fever. But the program also goes further in analyzing the social and political ramifications, not only to the state of California and city of San Francisco, but the United States as a whole, making a number of important points along the way: namely, that the Gold Rush was the nation's first large-scale media event; represented the sense of risk-taking that would become a major aspect of the American character (not only the prospectors but also ambitious businesspeople); and was instrumental in bringing about the political unification of the continent, yet also amplified the cruelty of prejudice and bigotry. While The Gold Rush may not break any new ground, the solid script, skillful editing, and smooth production values make this a fine survey of well-worn historical territory. DVD extras include a map of California gold discoveries. Recommended. Aud: H, C, P. (F. Swietek)