Samuel Bowers - Philosophy of The White Knights

Philosophy of The White Knights

His Klan, as Bowers wrote in one of his internal memoranda, was "a nocturnal organization that works best at night. We must remember that the Communists who are directing the agitators want us to engage in pitched battles in the streets so they can declare martial law."

In an "Imperial Executive Order" issued at a Klan meeting June 7, 1964, and recorded by the FBI, Bowers wrote:

"This summer, within a very few days, the enemy will launch his final push for victory here in Mississippi. This offensive will consist of two basic salients

One. Massive street demonstrations by blacks designed to provoke white militants into counterdemonstrations and open, pitched street battles to provide an excuse for:

Two. A decree from communist authorities in charge of the national government declaring martial law

When the first waves of blacks hit our streets this summer, we must avoid open daylight conflict with them we must counterattack the individual leaders at night."

Weaving religion into the mix, he further declared "As Christians we are disposed to kindness, generosity, affection, and humility in our dealings with others. As militants we are disposed to use physical force against our enemies. How can we reconcile these two apparently contradictory philosophies? The answer of course, is to purge malice, bitterness, and vengeance from our hearts."