Image
Description
This 1855 article is the national platform of the new Know-Nothing Party, which arose in reaction to the sectional crisis surrounding the issue of slavery. The Know-Nothings were also known as the American Party and surrounded themselves with nativist ideas. They were anti-Catholic and anti-immigrant.
Transcript of the "Know-Nothing National Platform"
Printable Excerpt of the "Know-Nothing National Platform"
Source-Dependent Questions
- Based on this article, how do you think the established political parties reacted to the formation of the American Party, also known as the Know-Nothings? Cite evidence from the text.
- The 1850s was a turbulent time in American history with many conflicts arising around the issue of slavery. What was the Know-Nothing solution to the conflict surrounding slavery? Critique their solution using two or three sentences.
- The Know-Nothings were an anti-Catholic, anti-immigrant party. How would you reconcile those prejudices with their stance on slavery?
Citation Information
"An Old-Line Whig's Opinion of the Know Nothing Platform," The Western Democrat, pp. 1, 13 July 1855. Courtesy of Library of Congress