The KKK in the 21st Century: A Modern Look at an Age-Old Organization

Origins and History

The Ku Klux Klan, or KKK, has endured for over a century as a powerful force in American politics. Embraced by white Americans after the Civil War, the KKK initially formed as a response to the newly freed black slaves. With Protestant and white supremacy foundations, the organization's early targets were minorities, Jews, and Catholics. This early surge in activity largely subsided in the late 1800s but resurged in the early 1900s, reaching a peak in the 1920s and 30s.

Following World War II, the KKK faced a significant decline due to changing public sentiment around civil rights. However, in opposition to the Civil Rights Movement of the 1950s and 1960s, the KKK experienced a brief resurgence. Yet, this movement quickly lost support as public opinion shifted, relegating the KKK to a fringe group with few members by the 1980s.

Modern Trends and Demographics

As we move into the 21st century, the KKK has largely disbanded into small, disorganized bands donning sheets and burning crosses. Today, some chapters of the KKK accept Hispanics and Native Americans, and the organization has even allied with Black Muslim groups against shared enemies such as Jews.

Modern KKK members are often from blue-collar or lower-collar backgrounds, living primarily in New England, the Deep South, or Southern California. While some are well-educated, most are high school graduates or hold a bachelor's degree. Their arguments are typically centered on what they perceive as racially biased government programs and media coverage.

Contemporary Issues and Polarization

Today, the KKK is largely viewed as an attention-seeking organization. Many mainstream white supremacists view the KKK with a sense of disdain, and its influence is minimal. The KKK is heavily infiltrated by the FBI, with some chapters potentially led by undercover agents.

The organization does not support the Trump administration, nor does Trump himself. The 2016 populist revolution, which brought Donald Trump to the presidency, included significant support from minority voters. In fact, David Duke, a former KKK leader, campaigned for Tulsi Gabbard in the 2020 election, and some KKK groups openly supported Hillary Clinton in 2016.

Conclusion

Despite its continued presence, the KKK today is far less impactful than its historical counterparts. For many, it is merely a small, attention-seeking fringe organization. While still controversial, the KKK's influence on American politics and society has significantly waned in the modern era.