Anti-Masonic Party

The Anti-Masonic Party was a political party in the United States that emerged from a popular movement fueled by suspicion of the Freemasons. This movement gained traction in 1826 following the mysterious disappearance of William Morgan, a man who claimed to expose Masonic secrets.1

The Anti-Masonic Party was significant as the first American third party, the first to hold a national nominating convention, and the first to present a platform of principles. It condemned Masonry for its secrecy and exclusivity. Despite initial success in local elections and the publication of Anti-Masonic newspapers, the party's national influence waned after the 1832 election. Many of its members and reformist ideas were absorbed by the emerging Whig Party.1