What term describes the 19th-century American political movement that sought to limit immigration?

The term that best describes the 19th-century American political movement aimed at limiting immigration is nativism. This movement was characterized by a strong opposition to immigrants, particularly those who were seen as culturally and ethnically different from the established American population. Nativists believed that immigrants posed a threat to American values, jobs, and social order.

Nativism gained significant traction during periods of heavy immigration, especially in the mid to late 19th century, when large numbers of Irish and German immigrants arrived. This movement often manifested itself in political action, which included advocating for policies that restricted immigration and even promoting the idea that only native-born Americans should hold certain rights and privileges.

Understanding nativism provides insight into the social tensions of the period, as it reflected broader anxieties about cultural change and economic competition in an era of rapid industrialization and urbanization. This context helps to clarify why nativism emerged as a potent political force during the 19th century.