Navists were prejudice against immigrants
Nativists believed that the interests of native-born or established inhabitants of a country should be prioritized over those of immigrants. They often held the view that immigrants posed a threat to cultural identity, economic stability, and social cohesion. Nativist sentiments frequently led to calls for stricter immigration laws and policies, reflecting a desire to protect what they saw as a homogeneous national identity. Overall, nativism is characterized by a resistance to immigration and a preference for the native population.
The goal of nativists was to prioritize the interests and culture of native-born inhabitants over those of immigrants, often advocating for restrictive immigration policies. They sought to preserve what they viewed as the "traditional" American way of life, which they believed was being threatened by the influx of immigrants. Nativists often promoted xenophobia and a sense of national superiority, arguing that immigrants were detrimental to social cohesion and economic stability. This movement was particularly prominent in the 19th and early 20th centuries in the United States.