Political Strategies and Immigration in 19th Century America

The video discusses the impact of immigration on politics, focusing on urban political machines like Tammany Hall and the role of immigrants in voting. It explores historical voting rights, the misconception of Irish identity and whiteness, and the influence of the Catholic Church under Archbishop John Hughes. The video also examines William Seward's political actions and their long-term effects on the Republican Party.

What was one of the main political impacts of immigration in 19th century America?

• The rise of urban political machines

• The decline of the Democratic Party

• The abolition of slavery

• The establishment of public welfare programs

What role did Tammany Hall play in the lives of immigrants?

• It provided jobs in exchange for votes

• It was a religious institution

• It was a military organization

• It was a school for immigrant children

During the 19th century, what was required for immigrants to vote in the United States?

• They had to be citizens

• They had to declare their intention to become citizens

• They had to pass a literacy test

• They had to own property

What misconception about the Irish is discussed in the transcript?

• They were not considered white upon arrival

• They were primarily Protestant

• They were the wealthiest immigrant group

• They were the first to gain voting rights

Who was Fernando Wood and what was his political strategy?

• A mayor who used immigrant gangs for political gain

• A religious leader advocating for Catholicism

• A businessman who funded public schools

• A military general during the Civil War

How did Archbishop John Hughes influence the Catholic Church in America?

• He converted it to Protestantism

• He made it more militant and expansionist

• He closed down parochial schools

• He reduced its influence in politics

What was one of the main concerns of native-born Protestants regarding the Catholic Church?

• Its support for slavery

• Its opposition to public education

• Its growing influence and attempts to convert people

• Its alliance with the Republican Party

What was William Seward's approach to immigrants during his time as governor?

• He ignored their political influence

• He advocated for their deportation

• He sought to support them and limit anti-immigrant sentiment

• He opposed their right to vote

How did Seward's actions in the 1840s affect his political career later on?

• They made him a popular figure among nativists

• They had no impact on his career

• They led to his election as President

• They hindered his chances for the Republican presidential nomination

Who became the Republican candidate acceptable to nativists in 1860?

• William Seward

• John Hughes

• Fernando Wood

• Abraham Lincoln