Founding of the Ku Klux Klan (KKK)
Who was involved? Think about the people or groups who were involved and affected by this event.
What happened? Summarize the event!
Where did the event take place?
When did the event take place?
Why is this event important to Georgia's history?
The Ku Klux Klan (KKK) was founded by Confederate veterans and former members of white supremacist groups in Pulaski, Tennessee in 1865. The founding members included John C. Lester, John B. Kennedy, Frank O. McCord, Richard R. Reed, Calvin E. Jones, and James R. Crowe.
The KKK was originally formed as a social club but quickly turned into a violent and racist organization targeting African Americans, especially those who advocated for civil rights. They aimed to restore white supremacy and enforce racial segregation. The KKK used terror tactics such as intimidation, violence, and lynching to maintain control and suppress African American political and economic power.
The event took place in Pulaski, Tennessee, where the KKK was founded. However, it quickly spread to other southern states, including Georgia.
The founding of the KKK took place in 1865, shortly after the end of the American Civil War and the abolition of slavery.
This event is significant to Georgia's history as it marked the beginning of a long and troubling era of racial violence and discrimination in the state and the entire country. The KKK's presence and activities in Georgia had a profound impact on African Americans' lives, impeding their progress, instilling fear, and hindering their ability to exercise their rights as citizens. The KKK's influence lasted for decades, and its actions continue to be condemned today. Understanding the history of the KKK is crucial in recognizing the struggles for civil rights and racial equality in Georgia and throughout the United States.