REFORM AND RESPONSES
In spite of the prompt effects, the riots had an lasting effect on New York City. Various responses emerged from different social classes. New York's wealthy elite realized they could not ignore the poor's difficulty. Elites formed various committees and organizations, such as the Citizen Association, to examine the cause of the riots and prevent future ones from occurring. The immigrant working class became aware that they had to find a peaceful way to express their plight. Tammany Hall, a political machine, provided the only help the poor could receive. Tammany Hall Boss, William Marcy "Boss" Tweed, began to position his party in favor of Irish immigrants and provided service in helping them find jobs in exchange for their vote. He was able to control the city government with support from immigrants and politically represent them.