The American Party and Immigrant Experience Flashcards

Vocabulary flashcards covering the rise of the American Party (Know Nothings), religious dynamics between Protestants and Catholics in public education, and immigrant assistance programs.

Xenophobia

A fear and distress of strangers and foreigners.

Order of the Star Spangled Banner

A secret society formed in 1849 by politically motivated Protestants in New York City with passwords, hand signals, and membership exclusive to white Protestant men.

Know Nothings

The nickname given by the press to members of the Order of the Star Spangled Banner, who were required to reply "I know nothing" when questioned about their order.

American Party

The official political organization of the Know Nothings that pushed an anti-immigrant, anti-Catholic, and anti-women agenda, which eventually dissolved in 1860 over divisions regarding slavery.

John Wilkes Booth

An infamous member of the Know Nothing Party from Maryland who assassinated President Abraham Lincoln nine years after the party's presidential election run.

Catholic Schools

Separate educational institutions founded by Catholics so children could study the Catholic translation of the Bible and learn about the Catholic faith, rather than reading Protestant translations required in public schools.

Churches and Synagogues

Religious institutions where arriving immigrants found charity, assistance, and welcome in America.