American Party

The, the name of three separate organizations which at different times held a prominent place in the political affairs of the United States. The first, organized about 1852, at a time when the Whig Party was near its di olution was, in fact, a secret society, and was better known in later years as the “Know Nothings,” from the a umed ignorance of its members when questioned in regard to the objects and name of the order. Its principal doctrine was opposition to all foreigners and Roman Catholics, and its motto was ‘* Americans must rule America.” The first National Convention of the Party was. held in February, 1856, at which resolutions were adopted, demanding a lengthening of the residence nece ary to naturalization, and condemning President Pierce’s administration for the repeal of the Mi ouri Compromise. A number of the members withdrew because of the refusal to consider a resolution regarding the restriction of slavery.