Final answer:
Chinese immigrants attracted scrutiny due to their dress, eating habits, and recreational use of opium during the California gold rush. The correct option is A.
Step-by-step explanation:
The group that attracted scrutiny due to their dress, eating habits, and recreational use of opium during the California gold rush was A. Chinese immigrants.
Chinese immigrants arrived in large numbers during the gold rush and were primarily engaged in menial jobs such as mining and agricultural work.
They were seen as frugal and hard workers by some, but many American miners resented their presence and believed they were taking away job opportunities.
Discrimination and prejudice against Chinese immigrants were prevalent during this time, with laws such as the Chinese Exclusion Act ultimately denying them entry into the United States. The correct option is A.