Why did the know nothing's target the Irish?

Answer 1

The Know Nothing Party, active in the mid-19th century, targeted the Irish primarily due to their Catholic faith and immigrant status. Many Americans viewed Irish immigrants as a threat to the social and political fabric of the nation, associating them with poverty and crime. This xenophobia was fueled by economic competition and cultural differences, leading to widespread discrimination and violence against Irish communities. The Know Nothings capitalized on these fears, promoting nativist sentiments to gain political power.