1.
The Ku Klux Klan was originated in order to destroy what post-Civil War policy?
Correct Answer
B. Reconstruction
Explanation
Reconstruction attempted to help former slaves in the South recover and move forward from the burdens of slavery. The KKK helped end Reconstruction. Blacks in the South were left in a subordinate condition, so the KKK no longer had a purpose.
2.
The decline of the KKK in the 1870s was largely due to (pick one):
Correct Answer
C. The success of the Klan in securing white southern rule
Explanation
The decline of the KKK in the 1870s was largely due to the success of the Klan in securing white southern rule. This means that once the Klan achieved their goal of establishing white supremacy in the southern states, their influence and power diminished. As they had achieved their objective, there was less need for their violent methods and intimidation tactics, leading to a decline in their activities.
3.
Besides African Americans, name three groups targeted by the KKK following WWI:
Correct Answer
A. Immigrants, Jews and Catholics
Explanation
Following World War I, the KKK targeted immigrants, Jews, and Catholics. The KKK believed in white supremacy and sought to preserve what they saw as traditional American values. They viewed immigrants as a threat to American culture and saw Jews and Catholics as religious groups that did not align with their beliefs. The KKK used violence, intimidation, and discrimination to target and oppress these groups, aiming to maintain their perceived racial and religious superiority.
4.
In the 1920s, the KKK was most prominent in the South and:
Correct Answer
C. Midwest
Explanation
During the 1920s, the Ku Klux Klan (KKK) experienced a resurgence and gained prominence in the United States. While it was most prominent in the South, where it originated after the Civil War, it also had a significant presence in the Midwest. The Midwest region, which includes states like Indiana, Ohio, and Illinois, saw a rise in Klan membership and activity during this time. The KKK targeted various groups, including African Americans, immigrants, and Catholics, spreading their ideologies of white supremacy and nativism. Therefore, the correct answer is Midwest.
5.
The rise of the KKK in the 1920s can be seen as an attempt by what group to regain control of the nation’s social order?
Correct Answer
A. White middle class men
Explanation
The rise of the KKK in the 1920s can be seen as an attempt by white middle class men to regain control of the nation's social order. During this time, many white middle class men felt threatened by social changes and the increasing influence of immigrants, African Americans, and other minority groups. The KKK provided a platform for these men to express their fears and frustrations, and through acts of violence and intimidation, they sought to reestablish white supremacy and maintain their privileged position in society.
6.
The latest incarnation of the KKK occurred after WWII as a reaction to what national movement?
Correct Answer
B. Civil Rights Movement
Explanation
The correct answer is Civil Rights Movement. After World War II, the Civil Rights Movement gained momentum in the United States, advocating for equal rights and an end to racial segregation. The KKK, a white supremacist organization, emerged as a reaction to this movement, aiming to intimidate and oppress African Americans and other minority groups. The KKK's resurgence during this time was fueled by fear and opposition to the progress being made towards racial equality.