Inventing America’s First Immigration Crisis

The rapid influx of 4.2 million immigrants to the United States in the 1840s and 1850s led to the country’s first anti-immigration political movement, the “nativists.” Though progressive in their support of labor rights, women’s rights and government regulation of industry, this group’s xenophobic beliefs led them to negatively target those of German and Irish origin, especially practicing Roman Catholics. By explaining the dramatic rise of the National American, or “Know Nothing,” Party in bourgeoning western cities – namely Chicago, Cincinnati, Louisville, and St. Louis – Dr. Luke Ritter will illuminate the cultural, economic, and political issues that ultimately motivated (and continue to motivate) Americans’ negative reactions to foreigners.

835 University, Douglas Hall 240
Las Vegas, New Mexico 87701
United States