Samuel Morse’s Arguments on Immigration and National Identity
According to Morse, the American democratic system was in danger from the inflow of European immigrants, particularly those who practiced Catholicism. He claimed that Austria, in particular, aimed to erode the basis of democratic liberty by encouraging the spread of Catholicism in America (Morse, 1835). He used the Austrian Counsellor of Legation, who had asserted that Catholicism was the natural rival to Protestantism and the supporter of arbitrary power, to bolster his allegations.
Additionally, he mentioned the establishment of the St. Leopold Society in Vienna, whose objective was to “promote the greater activity of Catholic missions in America” (Morse, 1835). Morse contends that the country’s democracy is in danger due to the growth of the Roman Catholic religion in America and the immigration of Catholics (Morse, 1835). Morse advises against using sentimental language when bringing up religion in political discussions and contends that it is crucial to acknowledge and address the political nature of religious creeds.
Contemporary Use of Morse’s Rhetoric in Modern Debates
Morse’s ideas are still cited today when people discuss immigration and how it affects the country’s democracy. He claimed that the inflow of immigrants, especially those with a different religion, challenged the American political system and its dedication to democratic liberty (Morse, 1835). Some still use this justification to voice their worries about immigration and its possible impact on the American democratic system. Even though the authentic faith and population may change, the same arguments are still utilized today.
The notion that some religions are incompatible with democracy is still used to exclude and demonize particular groups of people. The dread of “foreigners” is still used to incite fear and excuse discrimination. Morse says, “It is for the happiness of those united in society to harmonize as much as possible in matters which they must of necessity transact together” (Morse, 1835).
Reference
Morse, S. F. (1835). Imminent dangers to the free institutions of the United States through foreign immigration. Political Conspiracies in America, 34–38. Web.