The Know-Nothings and this political party were formed when the Federalist party died after the War of 1812.

• A. Whigs
• B. Democrats
• C. Republicans
• D. Federalists

Answer: (A)

After the Federalist Party faded following the War of 1812, American politics shifted to new rivalries. The Whig Party formed in the 1830s as a major opposition to Andrew Jackson’s Democrats, drawing support from merchants, professionals, and others who favored congressional power, modernization, and a tighter federal role in promoting economic growth. The Know-Nothings, a separate later movement, appeared in the 1840s–50s with a nativist platform. Because the question pairs the Know-Nothings with the party that emerged in that post-Federalist era and stood as a principal rival to the Democrats, the Whigs are the best fit. The other options don’t align with the same historical timeline or role.