This monumental reference work is a comprehensive guide to the Ku Klux Klan. It begins with a brief history of the KKK, from antebellum predecessors to the present day. Subsequent chapters cover beliefs, including white supremacy, nativism, religion, moralism and education; terms and abbreviations, with a definitive glossary; biographies of prominent historical Klansmen and profiles of KKK groups and front groups; profiles of individuals and groups linked or friendly to the Klan; an historical overview of the Klan in politics, including friendly and adversarial politicians; a discussion of activities in the United States and abroad; the use of violence, with a roster of murder victims, a compilation of arson and bombing incidents, and sketches of riots and lynchings; state and federal efforts to police or infiltrate the Klan; watchdog groups; and current and historic journalists who covered Klan activities. Appendices provide a KKK timeline and reproductions of several key Klan documents.

Michael Newton is an award-winning author of numerous books on topics ranging from cryptozoology to civil rights and organized crime. He lives in Indiana.

Michael Newton
Format: softcover (8.5 x 11)
Pages: 512
Bibliographic Info: 133 photos, appendices, bibliography, index
Copyright Date: 2014 [2007]
pISBN: 978-0-7864-9559-7
eISBN: 978-1-4766-0508-1
Imprint: McFarland

Preface      1

Abbreviations      3

1. A Brief History of the Ku Klux Klan      5

2. Klanspeak      30

3. The Klan Kreed      37

4. Who’s Who in the Invisible Empire      56

5. A Gathering of Klans      112

6. Komrades in Arms      145

7. Mapping the Empire      195

8. Friends and Foes of the Klan in Politics      231

9. Reign of Terror      265

10. Policing Vigilantes      304

11. Covering the Klan      336

Appendix A: A Ku Klux Timeline      361

Appendix B: Selected Klan Documents      423

I. KKK Prescript of 1867      424

II. KKK Prescript of 1868      428

III. The Kloran      432

IV. Constitution and Laws of the UKA      437

V. Seven Symbols of the Klan      460

VI. Constitution of the Original Knights of the Realm of Louisiana      463

VII. Constitution of the WKKKKM      469

Bibliography      481

Index      495

“a very detailed account of the rise of the Ku Klux Klan (KKK) after the Civil War…. Numerous photos showing the group’s activity through its long history are interwoven neatly throughout…a solid addition”—Library Journal; “thorough…comprehensive…definitive reference…well written”—Booklist; “contains unique information…recommended”—Choice; “excellent, well-written…of great interest”—ARBA; “comprehensive…thoroughly researched…highly detailed…fascinating”—Against The Grain.