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Political Science
Security Studies

Kontextualizing the Klan: Birth, Respite and Revival

Profile image of Ronald DormanRonald Dorman

2018

Abstract

In the lexicon of American history, few words possess the power to conjure more vivid or visceral emotions than Klan. The noose and cowl are indelibly inked on the fabric of our society as enduring symbols of fear, depravity and raw hatred. The Ku Klux Klan is responsible for a litany of brutal atrocities against innocent men, women and children. In attempting to make sense of the senseless, many Americans have chosen to frame the Klan as a mindless cult of white Dixie despots, psychopathically slaughtering emancipated blacks to reestablish a twisted image of the Grand Old South. That comforting depiction does not wholly withstand scrutiny and fails to consider important questions.

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References (43)

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  39. "Life Demands Service! Sacrifice!" The Imperial Knight-Hawk, November 27, 1923, 6.
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