"The Klan Unmasked" by W. J. Simmons is a historical account written in the early 20th century. The book aims to provide an insider's perspective on the Ku Klux Klan, detailing its organization, beliefs, and the reasons for its existence at the time. Simmons, a founder of the Klan, seeks to defend its image against public criticism and to explain its perceived necessity in preserving Anglo-Saxon civilization. The opening of the book serves as a foreword where Simmons outlines the purpose of his writing. He explains that the Klan emerged as a response to perceived threats during the Reconstruction era, positioning itself as a defender of white supremacy and American values. He acknowledges that the Klan has been the target of public backlash and emphasizes that its secrecy and exclusivity are akin to other fraternal organizations. Simmons arranges to elucidate the Klan's mission through various chapters, arguing for its relevance in protecting American ideals amidst growing immigration and societal changes. (This is an automatically generated summary.)