Beneath the hood and robe: a socioeconomic analysis of Ku Klux Klan membership in Denver, Colorado, 1921-1925

The Invisible Empire of the Knights of the Ku Klux Klan was in numbers and political influence the most powerful social movement of the 1920s and probably the most significant crusade of the American right-wing. Unlike its predecessor of the Reconstruction period or its descendant of today, this Klan movement was not primarily southern, white supremacist, or terrorist. Preaching a multifaceted program based upon "100 Percent Americanisnm" and militant Protestantism, the secret society ellisted recruits in every section of the nation. Among the strongest Klan organizations were the invisible realms of the West-Colorado, Texas, California, and Oregon. Perhaps as many as six million Americans heeded its call to resist Catholics, Jews, law violators, blacks, and immigrants. The Klan's means of resistance were usually political-the election of trusted men who would assail criminals and regulate minority groups. Boycotts, cross burnings, and night riding tactics were also employed to remind minorities of their place.