what led to the decline of the second ku klux klan
Public schools
Legislation from opposition groups
The scopes trial verdict
Increasing urbanization
The Indian citizenship act of 1924
The decline of the second Ku Klux Klan was influenced by several factors, including public schools, legislation from opposition groups, the Scopes Trial verdict, increasing urbanization, and the Indian Citizenship Act of 1924.
1. Public schools: As public education expanded during the early 20th century, more emphasis was placed on teaching tolerance and equality among different races and ethnicities. This led to increased awareness and opposition to the discriminatory practices of the Ku Klux Klan.
2. Legislation from opposition groups: Various organizations and social initiatives, such as the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), actively worked towards civil rights and equality for marginalized communities. These efforts brought attention to the racist nature of the Klan and contributed to its decline.
3. The Scopes Trial verdict: The Scopes Trial, which took place in 1925, addressed the issue of teaching evolution in schools. This trial symbolized the clash between fundamentalist beliefs and growing scientific advancements. The Klan, which was closely aligned with religious fundamentalism, lost credibility and support following the trial.
4. Increasing urbanization: The second Ku Klux Klan primarily gained support in rural areas, particularly in the South. However, as industrialization and urbanization expanded during the early 20th century, people started moving to urban areas for employment opportunities. The Klan struggled to maintain its influence and power in these urban environments.
5. The Indian Citizenship Act of 1924: This act granted citizenship to Native Americans. The second Ku Klux Klan mainly targeted African Americans and immigrants, but they also held prejudiced views against Native Americans. With the passing of this act, the Klan's discriminatory practices against indigenous communities faced additional challenges.
Overall, a combination of social progress, changes in demographics, and legislative actions contributed to the decline of the second Ku Klux Klan.