Question

Why were members of a nativist group nicknamed “Know Nothings”? They were known to be poorly educated. They did not want to learn about other cultures. They answered questions about their group with that phrase. They campaigned against the building of public schools.

Answer 1

Members of the nativist group were nicknamed "Know Nothings" because when asked about their activities or beliefs, they responded that they "knew nothing." This phrase was used as a way to avoid revealing details about the group's agenda, which was largely based on anti-immigrant and anti-Catholic sentiments. The label became associated with the American Party, which was active in the mid-19th century and sought to promote the interests of native-born Americans over immigrants. The name "Know Nothing" reflects the group's secretive nature and the culture of secrecy that characterized their organization.