Historians generally see the KKK as part of the post Civil War insurgent violence related not only to the high number of veterans in the population, but also to their effort to control the dramatically changed social situation by using extrajudicial means to restore white supremacy.

The Klan used public violence against blacks as intimidation. They burned houses, and attacked and killed blacks, leaving their bodies on the roads.

At an 1867 meeting in Nashville, Tennessee, Klan members gathered to try to create a hierarchical organization with local chapters eventually reporting up to a national headquarters.

The costume of the Ku Klux Klan (sometimes known as the “glory suit” by Klansmen) is perhaps the most distinctive feature of the Ku Klux Klan, and is recognized worldwide. The archetypal outfit was actually popularized largely during the revival of the Klan from 1915 to 1944.

Robes of the 19th-century KKK were of various colors. In the 20th century, the second KKK adopted white as the standard color. Late 20th-century manifestations of the KKK in small groups has meant a wider variation in robes.

Some groups use colored robes for higher ranks.

• Purple (or sometimes blue) – Imperial Wizard
• Green (or sometimes red) – Grand Dragon
• Reddish-purple – Great Titan
• Gold – Exalted Cyclops
• Black – Knighthawk (security)
• Red – Kleagle

The Knighthawk’s black robe is usually shorter so as to allow easier movement.

Photos via Retronaut for additional photos from the catalog.
Quoted text via Wikipedia.