What is the course about?
The Ku Klux Klan has gone through three major incarnations. The Klan emerged in the aftermath of the Civil War and played an important role during Reconstruction, before eventually disappearing in the 1870s. The Second Ku Klux Klan emerged during World War I and it went on to play a major role in American society and politics during the 1920s, before collapsing in the late 1920s. In the 1950s, the Third Ku Klux Klan emerged in response to the Civil Rights Movement. We will look at all three incarnations, as well as the modern depictions of the organisation.
This is a live online course. You will need:
- Internet connection. The classes work best with Chrome.
- A computer with microphone and camera is best (e.g. a PC/laptop/iMac/MacBook), or a tablet/iPad/smart phone/iPhone if you don't have a computer.
- Earphones/headphones/speakers.
We will contact you with joining instructions before your course starts.
What will we cover?
¿ The First KKK (1860s-1870s)
¿ The Second KKK (1910s-1920s)
¿ The Third KKK (1950s-1960s)
¿ Depictions and representations of the KKK in the media
¿ How historians have debated and portrayed the KKK over the years.
What will I achieve?
By the end of this course you should be able to...
¿Describe each incarnation of the Klan and how they differed from each other
¿ Consider how the Klan has shaped American history
¿ Critique Hollywood’s depictions of the Klan and how accurate, or inaccurate, they have been
¿ Discuss how historians’ analysis of the Klan has changed over time.
What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?
¿ This is an introductory-level course. No prior knowledge is necessary, only curiosity.
How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?
¿ A combination of lecture, discussion, and group activities will be used to teach the course.
¿ You do not need to do work outside of class, but reading materials will be available if you wish to learn more.
Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?
¿ Be prepared to take notes. You may wish to bring a pen and paper or a laptop/tablet.
When I've finished, what course can I do next?
Look at our 'US Controversies' series, exploring controversial aspects of American history.
