I understand the fear-based motivations of racists. It's often shown in their fear-mongering tactics to foment insurrection and harm against Americans.
The part I don't understand is the "why". Economic instability and poorly educated seem to be two major factors, but not all.
IIRC, about 2/3s of the Insurrectionists, besides having previously reported mental issues, had serious financial issues; in or facing bankruptcy, trapped under crushing dead, dying business, etc.
IMO, rather than blame themselves for their failures and getting help to have a better future, they blamed everyone but themselves. That's a
Victim Mentality which points out the mental health issues associated with racism, bigotry and hatred in general.
Look at how often the RWers on JPP, most elderly Euro-American males, complain about different races, different genders and seeking to strip any Americans not like them of their unalienable rights.
IMHO, that's a completely irrational POV which is the basis of my belief that they have mental health issues and should seek or be given treatment.