The best known of these nativist groups came to be called the American Party, and its adherents as Know-Nothings. The aim of the Know-Nothing movement was to combat foreign influences and to uphold and promote traditional American ways.
People also ask, where did most Irish immigrants settle between 1820 and 1850?
Data may be downloaded if more convenient. As the map at the right suggests the largest numbers of Irish immigrants coming into the United States as a result of the potato famine settled in two states – Massachusetts and New York – and actually in two cities – Boston and New York City.
Moreover, why did the Know Nothing Party want to prevent immigrants from voting? They feared that immigrants, especially Catholics, could gain enough electoral power to change ”American values” and institutions. The Know-Nothings were supported by merchants, manufacturers and native-born workers who saw immigrants as competitors for jobs.