[Grammar] They are what make(s?) me happy

[enthink]

Which one is correct?

1) These things are important because they are what make me happy.

2) These things are important because they are what makes me happy.

I'd believe 2 is correct but I saw 1 used in a book written by a native speaker. Thanks!

 

[emsr2d2]

Which one is correct?

1) These things are important because they are what make me happy.

2) These things are important because they are what makes me happy.

I'd believe 2 is correct but I saw 1 used in a book written by a native speaker. Thanks!

If you consider what the word "what" is replacing, you may see why 1) is correct.

These things are important because they are the things that make me happy.

Bear in mind that "they" is the important word here. It is plural therefore the following verb "make" must agree.

 

[enthink]

Hmm, doesn't that depend on the point of view?

You could also play a trick and transform it this way:
What makes me happy are the things that are important.

Is there any native English speaker out there who considers 2 correct?

 

[enthink]

Is there any native English speaker out there who considers 2 correct?