Ku Klux Klan vs. White Supremacists

Attribute	Ku Klux Klan	White Supremacists
Beliefs	Believe in white supremacy, white nationalism, and anti-immigration	Believe in white supremacy and the superiority of the white race
History	Founded in 1865 in the United States	Various groups and individuals with similar beliefs
Organization	Structured with ranks and rituals	Less structured, with various groups and individuals
Violence	Known for acts of violence, including lynching and bombings	Some groups have been involved in violent acts
Public Perception	Generally viewed as a hate group	Also viewed as a hate group by many

History

The Ku Klux Klan (KKK) was founded in 1865 in Pulaski, Tennessee, by six Confederate veterans. The group's original purpose was to resist Reconstruction efforts and maintain white supremacy in the South. The KKK used violence and intimidation tactics to achieve their goals, targeting African Americans, Jews, Catholics, and immigrants. On the other hand, White Supremacists are individuals or groups who believe that white people are superior to people of other races. They often advocate for the preservation of white culture and the exclusion of non-white individuals from society.

Beliefs

The Ku Klux Klan's beliefs are rooted in white supremacy and anti-Semitism. They believe in the superiority of the white race and the need to maintain racial purity. The KKK also promotes Christian nationalism and the idea of a white, Protestant America. White Supremacists share similar beliefs in the superiority of the white race but may not always align with the KKK's specific Christian ideology. Some White Supremacists may also hold anti-government or anti-immigrant beliefs in addition to their racial views.

Organization

The Ku Klux Klan is a well-known organized hate group with a hierarchical structure. The group has a leader, known as the Grand Wizard, who oversees regional leaders and members. The KKK has a history of secret rituals and symbols, including the burning cross. White Supremacists, on the other hand, may not always be part of a formal organization. They may operate as individuals or small groups, often communicating and organizing online through social media platforms or websites. Some White Supremacist groups, such as the Aryan Brotherhood or the Proud Boys, do have more structured organizations.

Violence

The Ku Klux Klan has a long history of using violence and intimidation to achieve their goals. This includes lynching, bombings, and other acts of domestic terrorism. The KKK has been responsible for numerous deaths and injuries throughout its history. White Supremacists also have a reputation for violence, with some individuals and groups carrying out hate crimes and acts of terrorism. The 2017 Unite the Right rally in Charlottesville, Virginia, which resulted in the death of counter-protester Heather Heyer, is a recent example of White Supremacist violence.

Legal Status

The Ku Klux Klan has faced legal challenges throughout its history, including government crackdowns and lawsuits. The group has been designated as a hate group by the Southern Poverty Law Center and other organizations. While the KKK still exists today, its influence and membership have declined over the years. White Supremacists, on the other hand, operate in a more decentralized manner, making it difficult for law enforcement to track and prosecute individuals. Some White Supremacist groups may also operate under the guise of political organizations or advocacy groups to avoid legal scrutiny.

Public Perception

The Ku Klux Klan is widely condemned by mainstream society and seen as a symbol of hate and racism. The group's history of violence and discrimination has led to its vilification in popular culture and media. While some individuals may still sympathize with the KKK's beliefs, the group is generally viewed as extremist and fringe. White Supremacists, on the other hand, may not always be as easily identifiable. Some individuals may hold white supremacist beliefs without openly associating with hate groups or engaging in violent behavior. This can make it more challenging to address and combat white supremacy in society.