The Ku Klux Klan has been a source of fascination and horror for many people throughout its long history. The Klan was founded as a political organization in the aftermath of the Civil War, seeking to cope with the abolition of slavery and the defeat of the Confederate cause. The Klan surged in popularity during Reconstruction, when it established a reign of terror throughout much of the South, targeting newly freed African Americans and any whites perceived as sympathetic to their plight. Since then, it has waxed and waned in membership and influence, only to resurface during times of social unrest or deep-seated racial divisions.
For those wishing to gain greater understanding into this enigmatic group, The History Channel recently aired an insightful documentary that delves into the history and ideology of the Klan. Through archival footage, interviews with experts on race relations, and personal accounts from former members who have since left the organization, viewers are presented with a comprehensive overview of this controversial organization’s past and present. It also examines how modern-day Klansmen use bigotry as a tool to further their political agenda while attempting to present themselves as a respectable civic organization.
Whether you’re looking for an educational experience or simply want to better understand this complex subject matter from multiple perspectives, The History Channel’s documentary offers plenty in terms of information and insight. From its violent beginnings through its tumultuous evolution up until today’s neo-Klan resurgence—the documentary is comprehensive yet concise enough to be both accessible for those unfamiliar with American race relations while still engaging enough for seasoned historians alike. So if you’re interested in learning more about one of America’s oldest hate groups (or simply curious about its long history), then tune in to The History Channel’s KKK: A Secret History Of America’s Most Notorious Terrorists!
