Why was there anti immigrant hysteria in the US during World War 1?

During World War I, anti-immigrant hysteria in the U.S. was fueled by rising nationalism and xenophobia, partly driven by the war's context and the fear of espionage. Many immigrants, particularly those from Germany and Austria-Hungary, were seen as potential threats or disloyal, leading to widespread suspicion and discrimination. Propaganda portrayed these groups negatively, while the government enacted measures like the Espionage Act of 1917, which further stoked anti-immigrant sentiments. This atmosphere culminated in violence and harsh restrictions against perceived "enemy" aliens.