Experts warn of a possible surge in hate-group activity with a worsening economy

Analysts warn that the threat from hate groups and splinter organizations connected to the Klu Klux Klan should not be underestimated, especially at a time of economic unrest. Worsening economic conditions often give white supremacists a new source of discontent to exploit among potential recruits.

According to the Washington Post:

The number of U.S. hate groups has increased by 48 percent, to 888, since 2000, according to experts at the Southern Poverty Law Center, an independent organization that monitors racist movements.

Although questions persist about the ability of such groups to carry out violent plans, several recent national developments have combined to worry analysts, said Mark Potok, chief of the law center's Intelligence Project. In addition to the economic downturn, he cited rising immigration, demographic changes that predict whites will not be a majority within a few decades, and what some might see as "the final insult -- a black man in the White House."

Following the election of Barack Obama, who will become the first African-American president when he is inaugurated Jan. 20, there was also a racially-charged backlash. News reports and police reports show a wave of hate crimes and racist incidents across the nation, including vandalism, racist graffiti, dangling of nooses and cross burnings, as well as violence. According to the Secret Service, Obama has received more threats than any incoming president in history.

But hate activity has also evolved with the changing times. According to the Post, "in recent years, the racist hate movement has veered away from large-scale, Klan-type gatherings as many of its most prominent leaders died, went to prison or buckled under personal and financial troubles." 

Nowadays, followers find each other online.