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The Ku Klux Klan and religion in American society The Ku Klux Klan is a secret terrorist organization that originated in Pulaski, Tennessee after the end of the Civil War. This nineteenth century organization transformed from a social club to a vigilante band that used intimidation and violence to make their views known. The group in the South focused its attacks on the rising ambitions of the Negroes, but in other parts of the nation the Klan targeted Catholics, Jews, and immigrants. Upon further inspection it was shown that the Klan had some one hundred thousand members. Although the Klan is not as prevalent in modern day society as it once was, groups still exist across the nation. “The Ku Klux Klan is a dying body,” said a Southern social scientist. “But note that I said dying and not dead….A mad dog may be meanest just before it dies.” (Dykeman and Stokely 45-7) Although there are many differences between the old KKK and the new KKK, some beliefs have held strong over the years. In order to be accepted as a member of the Klan, one must submit an application and declare that they are of the White Aryan race. The Klan’s definition of the terms "White" or "Aryan" includes all fair skinned people Europe