Ku Klux Klan

            
            
             Despite the outcome of the Civil War, groups of white Southerners still refuse to accept African Americans as equals. The hatred of these groups often sparks violent activities. Typically, these groups try to intimidate African Americans through acts of violence. The Ku Klux Klan (KKK) is one such group that was originally established in 1898 as a social organization. Over time, the KKK spread throughout the South because white Southerners were afraid of not having trusted members in political offices. They often used lynching and other scare tactics to keep minorities, especially African Americans, from voting. In this manner, they ensured that their fellow Klansmen would be in political office. The KKK, a violent racist organization, continues to be a destructive force throughout the South. Strong political ties, a dedicated leadership, and committed members have come together to unfairly target minorities.
             Wielding its political ties, the KKK gets away with illegal acts of violence. Over the years there have been numerous examples of Klan members being elected to important political positions. "The Klan's response to community problems was usually political. By electing trusted officials Klansmen would be assured that crime would be suppressed, minorities regulated, and community improvements initiated."(Goldberg 1557). In addition, "By the early 1970's, one out of every six Klansmen was on the FBI payroll."(Goldberg 1558). Therefore the KKK could get away with acts of violence for which other citizens would be punished. The Klan was not just in the FBI and other government organizations, it could also affect electoral votes due to the large membership throughout the United States. "In the early 1920's.in Texas, 200,000 men joined, and a Klansmen was elected to the United States Senate. California's 50,000 Klansmen helped capture the statehouse for their candidate. Colorado Klan organizers counted 35,000 recruits, and elected members as governor and U.