What group saw a resurgence in influence in the U.S. following WWI?

The Ku Klux Klan experienced a significant resurgence in influence in the United States following World War I due to a variety of sociopolitical factors. The post-war period brought about a wave of anxiety and insecurity among many Americans, partly driven by rapid social changes, an influx of immigrants, and the fear of communism in the wake of the Russian Revolution. The KKK capitalized on these sentiments by promoting a nativist and white supremacist agenda, appealing to individuals who felt threatened by these changes.

In the 1920s, the Klan expanded its reach beyond the South into Northern and Midwestern states, gaining substantial membership and political clout. The organization used propaganda, parades, and community events to promote its ideology, effectively embedding itself in local politics and institutions. Their influence grew as they positioned themselves as defenders of traditional American values against perceived threats from minority groups and progressive movements. This resurgence was marked by a renewed emphasis on racism, bigotry, and a call for racial purity, illustrating how societal tensions can breed extremist movements.