American Protective Association

The American Protective Association (APA), founded in 1887, was a mostly nativist and anti-Catholic organization in the United States. Its members aimed to limit Catholic influence in American institutions, advocating for restrictions on Catholic immigrants and promoting Protestant values. The APA sought to influence politics and society through petitions, elections, and public campaigns, often presenting itself as protecting American workers and culture. While it was active mainly in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, its anti-immigrant stance reflected broader tensions over immigration and cultural assimilation during that period.