Speech #620267136

California. and Kentucky were " KnowNothings." The slogan of the " KnowNothing Party " was that Americans must rule America. amnd their greatest strength was in the Thirtythird Congress. from 1854 to 1850. when they claimed 43 Representatives and 5 Senators. Ten years later. however. in the Thirtyeighth Congress. there was not a " KnowNothing" Representative in the House. and the " KnowNothing Party " disappeared without having accomplished anything against imimigration. The truth is that in 1864 Congress passed a law to encourage ilmigration. especially the importation of contract labor. Thislaw was repealed. however. in 1868. leaving on the statute books the act of 1819. amended slightly by the acts of 1847 and 1848. providing improved conditions in tile steerage of immigration ships. The law of 1864 stands out as the only attempt on the part of the National Government to promote immigration. Tie States. however. have frequently made such attempts. New York. in 1824. passed a law requiring all masters of.vessels arriving at the port of entry to niake a written report. giving the name. age. and last residence of every person on board during the voyage. and whether any of the passengers had gone on board any other vessel with a view of proceeding to New York.