Ku Klux Klan

As per Stanley H. Horn, in his book, The Invisible Empire: The story of Ku Klux Klan, the group called Ku Klux Klan was organized by the members of Confederate army in Pulaski in Tennessee after the American Civil War had ended. As per the present US government classification, they are termed as  a hate group. The organization adopted the aim of protecting the rights and interests of White population in South States during the post Civil War period. They adopted the means of violence, murder and intimidation of African Americans and White Republicans (Carpetbaggers). Their aim was regain the control for White people over the South states. They wore long white robes, covered their heads with conical hats and hid their faces under masks. The Federal government passed Force Acts in 1870 and 1871 to prosecute the members of Ku Klux Klan for committing murders and other crimes of violence. They were suppressed. However, they again resurfaced and managed to help the white democrats to regain the political control over the South states.

In 1920s, a fresh organization with the same name and similar dress code resurfaced. They aimed at promoting the interests of White population. After Great Depression and then in post World War II period, their influence decreased. However, they are believed to be still popular among a section of white population in United States of America.