Ep 21. From the KKK to the Black Shriners

The Real History of Secret Societies season 1 episode 21, titled "From the KKK to the Black Shriners," explores the history and significance of the secretive fraternal organizations known as the Ku Klux Klan and the Black Shriners. Through interviews with experts and historians, the episode delves into the origins and evolution of these groups, from their early beginnings to their controversial present.

The episode examines the Ku Klux Klan, a white supremacist organization notorious for its violence and hatred towards African Americans. Viewers will learn about the Klan's inception in the aftermath of the Civil War, its peak during the 1920s, and its eventual decline in the mid-20th century. Experts also shed light on the Klan's ideology and tactics, including its use of terror and intimidation to achieve its objectives.

In contrast, the episode also explores the Black Shriners, an African American fraternal organization that traces its roots back to Freemasonry. Viewers will learn about the group's founding, which was aimed at providing a space for African American men to come together and support each other in the face of systemic racism and discrimination. Experts also discuss the Black Shriners' philanthropic work, including their support of various charitable causes across the country.

Throughout the episode, viewers will gain insights into the cultural, historical, and social contexts that gave rise to these two groups. They will be introduced to key figures who shaped their respective histories, such as Confederate general and Klan leader Nathan Bedford Forrest and Black Shriners founder Walter M. Fleming. The episode will also explore the similarities and differences between the two groups, highlighting how they both emerged out of a desire for belonging, community, and empowerment.

Overall, "From the KKK to the Black Shriners" offers a fascinating look into two of America's most secretive and controversial fraternal organizations, shedding light on the motivations, ideologies, and legacies of these groups. Through a combination of expert analysis and historical footage, the episode offers a nuanced and thought-provoking exploration of the complex, often fraught history of secret societies in America.