James Marshall was

James Marshall was an American carpenter and the discoverer of gold at Sutter's Mill in California in 1848, which sparked the California Gold Rush. Born on October 8, 1810, in New Jersey, he played a crucial role in the early days of the gold rush, although he faced challenges and personal struggles following his discovery. Despite his pivotal contribution to American history, Marshall never profited significantly from the gold he found and lived a modest life until his death in 1885. His discovery marked a transformative moment in the westward expansion of the United States.