Includes bibliographical references (pages 214-217) and index.
Contents:
Chapter 1. The Klan Appears -- Chapter 2. Kleagles and Crosses -- Chapter 3. The Visible Empire -- Chapter 4. It Takes Riots -- Chapter 5. Carnegie Aftermath -- Chapter 6. Deadly Parade -- Chapter 7. Lilly Trials -- Chapter 8. Pennsylvania Knights -- Chapter 9. Toward A New Klan -- Chapter 10. Decline
Summary:
Relying primarily on a narrative, chronological approach, this study examines Ku Klux Klan activities in Pennsylvania's twenty-eight western-most counties, where the state organization enjoyed greatest numerical strength. The work covers the period between the Klan's initial appearance in the state in 1921 and its virtual disappearance by 1928, particularly the heyday of the Invisible Empire, 1923-1925. This book examines a wide variety of KKK activities, but devotes special attention to the two large and deadly Klan riots in Carnegie and Lilly, as well as vigilantism associated with the intolerant order. Klansmen were drawn from a pool of ordinary Pennsylvanians who were driven, in part, by the search for fraternity, excitement, and civic betterment. However, their actions were also motivated by sinister, darker emotions and purposes. Disdainful of the rule of law, the Klan sought disorder and mayhem in pursuit of a racist, nativist, anti-Catholic, anti-Jewish agenda.
This resource is supported by the Institute of Museum and Library Services under the provisions of the Library Services and Technology Act as administered by State Library of Iowa.