What is Ku Klux Klan, what has been its history in America, why did RSS say – ‘We are not like that’

In American history, the name of Ku Klux Klan is taken as a form of politics of racism, violence and fear. This organization, which started in the 19th century, has been notorious for spreading hatred and violent activities against blacks, Jews and other minorities. Its methods and forms changed from time to time, but the controversy regarding its ideology never ended. In recent times, the name of Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) is being discussed in this context in India. Meanwhile, the Sangh has clarified regarding such statements that it has no connection with any ideology like Ku Klux Klan. In such a situation, the question arises that what has been the history of KKK, and why did RSS feel the need to give this clarification?

RSS General Secretary of Ku Klux Klan, Dattatreya Hosabale, gave the statement in an interactive session at the New India Conference organized by the Hudson Institute in Washington. He said that there are similar misconceptions about RSS as there are about India in America.

Why did RSS say – ‘We are not like that’

Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) general secretary Dattatreya Hosabale rejected the comparison between RSS and Ku Klux Klan. Whoever says this or wants to establish such a belief is in “misunderstanding”. Their information is based on wrong information. He has given many reasons behind this.

Denial of Supremacy: Hosabale argued that the RSS promotes “the philosophy of unity and brotherhood”, which according to him is the opposite of any supremacist ideology.

Emphasis on cultural preservation: He defined the RSS as a volunteer-run cultural movement deeply rooted in Indian traditions, and not as a racial hatred group.

Refutation of anti-minority: RSS General Secretary Dattatreya Hosabale Hosabale said that the positive works of RSS such as social service are often ignored, while its opposing narratives are propagated.

This comparison is often made by critics who allege that the Hindu nationalist organization acts as a ‘vigilante’ group that targets religious minorities in India. Just like the KKK worked in America. The RSS leader rejected the comparison outright and said, “There is no question of it being supremacist.”

What is the Ku Klux Klan?

The Ku Klux Klan (KKK) is a hate group associated with White American domination. It was established at the end of the 19th century. The group is known for advocating white supremacy, nativism, and racial segregation in violent and often covert ways. It historically targeted Black Americans as well as immigrants, Catholics, and Jews during that period. Often terrorism, lynching and intimidation were used for this.

What is the history of the Ku Klux Klan?

The Ku Klux Klan (KKK) has gone through three distinct periods and has often emerged at a time of great anxiety and tension in society.

First Klan (1865–1870): Founded by Confederate soldiers in Tennessee shortly after the American Civil War, the First Klan served as a secret rebel group. Its purpose was to re-establish white supremacy by intimidating newly freed black people and their white allies during the Reconstruction era. They killed thousands of people and engaged in “armed guerrilla warfare”. Due to the Ku Klux Klan Act of 1871 and federal intervention, this organization weakened to a great extent in America.

Second Klan (1915–1944): The KKK was reestablished near Atlanta in 1915. The inspiration behind this was from the film ‘The Birth of a Nation’, in which the first Klan was shown as the heroes. This form became a nationwide, mainstream organization, with millions of members. It expanded the scope of its hatred to include not only black people but also Catholics, Jews and immigrants. It rapidly declined during the 1930s due to internal scandals and corruption in the leadership.

Third Clan (1946–1950–present): The Klan, which emerged as a reaction to the Civil Rights Movement, was divided into small, local groups. These groups used violent methods like bombings, murders and assaults to protest racial equality.

In modern times, clan activities have reduced considerably. By the 21st century, the estimated number of its active members has reduced to a few thousand, who are divided into small, isolated groups.