Harold the Klansman

"Harold the Klansman" by George Alfred Brown is a historical novel written in the early 20th century. The book centers around the complexities of life in a small American town during a time when the Ku Klux Klan was becoming a significant social and political force. The main character, Ruth Babcock, is depicted as a determined young woman navigating the challenges of familial duty, financial hardship, and questions surrounding the controversial Klan organization. The opening of the narrative introduces us to Ruth, a strong-willed girl supporting her incapacitated father while seeking a path to a better life. The story begins by revealing her struggles, including her father’s memory loss due to an accident and their financial troubles. As she strives for a career to support her family, she is confronted with societal tensions around the Ku Klux Klan, which is attempting to establish a foothold in her community. Through conversations with her friends and family, we observe varying opinions on the Klan, which sets the stage for a deeper exploration of civil rights, community values, and the personal conflicts that arise during this turbulent time.