Shedding light on the KKK

   It is one of the most recognizable acronyms in the english language, and also one of the most feared groups throughout American history. The Ku Klux Klan, also commonly referred to as the KKK, was founded in the small southern town of Pulaski, Tennessee. Immediately following the Civil War, several Confederate Civil War soldiers gathered to create a secret fraternal, one that would promote the ideals and beliefs about the superior white race. The group also shared common fears regarding newly emancipated citizens of the south, worried that they would be granted the full rights of white citizens.

   Throughout its history the Klan has been composed of many powerful members including past presidents and congressmen. Despite what many might think the clan also allowed women into this secret fraternal order, something that most "secret societies" did not dare do. According to author Abby L. Ferber, in 1915 there were an estimated five hundred thousand women who belonged to the Klan.
     When it comes to defining what drives the members of these societies, people always assume hatred for blacks. Surprisingly, many groups have other factors that determine their belief system. For instance, the long list of "common enemies" is what tied the members together, a list that consisted of hatred against blacks, jews, catholics, and all foreigners. Terrorist actions have been made by the clan towards these groups including their symbolic ritual of placing a burning cross in the front yard of their "enemies." 

   Today white supremacist hate crimes are not as obvious or tolerated as they once were. There are many other white supremacist organizations besides the KKK, however this historic and often feared group is still in action within our current society. However, determining what group did the crime is often difficult, especially seeing as these groups choose to fly under the radar when it comes to daily life. 

   To some Americans these groups may seem a bit "off-their-rocker" but to the members within these societies and "fraternal orders", their beliefs are the only way of life. For instance, look at the example of the video below. This group of members in Georgia believes strongly in the white-supremacist values, which only proves that wether it is the 1850s or today, citizens throughout the country believe white is the only way.

   Growing up in Montana, I was personally exposed to acts of hate regarding white supremacy. My father is a college football coach, so as a kid I was constanly exposed to people of other races, especially my dad's black athletes. I would consider this experience as a blessing in disguise because I never realized there were any major differences between me and any other black student at my school. However, after watching these videos and taking this cultural ethnic studies class, I have come to realize that one major determining factor in how people view other races is based solely upon their own personal upbringing. How would you say you were raised?