The infamous Klu Klux Klan originated in the year 1866. During this time in America, the nation was even more divided by race, due to the fact that the Civil War had just ended. Therefore, a group of confederate soldiers created the Klan out of spite. The Klu Klux Klan firmly believes in the ideals of white supremacy. The leader of the Klan was named Nathan Bedford Forrest, he was also known as the “Grand Wizard”. Before he became the leader, he was a general during the civil war. After, the Civil War he was a planter, and a railroad president and then became the leader of this group. Congress passed the Reconstruction Act in 1865, which was approved by the 14th amendment, and also granted “equal protection” for former slaves. African Americans …show more content…
They also joined other associations that were called “The White Camilla”, and “The White Brotherhood”. In 1867-1868 10% black legislatures were elected and became victims of violence in the reconstruction. Schools, churches and other public organizations that included black people were also under attack by the Klan. By 1870, the group had expanded to many southern states. This group was violent, dangerous, and intimidated black people and other minorities. Usually where their actions took place either the law enforcement declined it or took place in it. People leading in the south denied to testify against what the Klan was doing, which gave them tacit approval, meaning they kept quiet when they had the chance to forbid or refuse. The Klan had already done certain crimes that were individual and were committed as federal offenses. The expansion of the federal authority that was used by Ulysses S. Grant, that had finished the KKK, was to warn republicans and other southern states. The democrats had control over the south once again. Later, a revival of the Klan was opposed. The second time around the KKK did not only have hatred towards blacks but also for Catholics and foreigners. It was growing hostility that the Americans in the 20th Century had