preview

The Ku Klux Klan And Their Influence On American History

Good Essays

The Ku Klux Klan’s original objective was to defeat social and religious change, they were against blacks, Jews, Catholics, and immigrants. The group defines religion similarly to as the true interpretation of Jesus Christ and his teachings. The group has had a lasting effect on American history as well as being known for their violent acts, but the group’s motives are less known. Founded in 1865 the Ku Klux Klan has been revived three different times throughout American history. During the first revival the klan focused mainly on putting a stop to social and racial change brought by the white women from the north. They used their hatred of the african americans to fuel their fight against the change in equality. In the 1920s the klan focused more on the immigration of foreigners and their influence on african americans. By changing christian music, burning crosses, and violent acts, the klan took on a more religious mentality. During the revival of 1946 klan members began using utilizing a vastly christian mentality that has lasted into current day. As time progressed the Ku Klux Klan movement has evolved from a social movement against change to a religious mentality based around Christianity. Their ideals, goals, and actions have changed from actions based solely on their mutual hatred of change to acts through which they claim as being Christian. Their motives have evolved from a hatred of all but white protestant christian to a justified religious reasoning for actions.

Get Access