Notorious Gangs in the United States: A Comparative Historical Journey

A Historical Perspective

In the annals of organized crime and gang life, the United States has a rich tapestry of notorious figures and groups. These are not confined to the present day; rather, they span multiple decades and encompass various forms of illegal organizations and criminal associations. Let's take a look at some of the most infamous groups of the past and present.

The Gangs of Yore

Historically, the United States has been home to a number of powerful and notorious crime groups. One of the most famous was the Capone Gang, led by Al Capone in the 1920s and 30s. Known for their involvement in bootlegging, gambling, and racketeering, the Capone Gang was a significant part of the era of Prohibition.

Another prominent group in the past was the Northside Gang, led by Dean O’Banion, Hymie Weiss, and Bugs Moran. Their rivalry with Al Capone's gang eventually led to the infamous “St. Valentine’s Day Massacre” in 1929. The 1930s also saw the rise of Murder Inc., led by Albert Anastasia, known for its involvement in contract killings.

The Five Families of New York

In New York City, the Five Families—the Gambino’s, the Bonanno’s, the Lucchese’s, the Colombo’s, and the Genovese crime families—were at the forefront of organized crime. These families were not just local pesky groups but national leaders in insurance fraud, labor racketeering, and other illegal activities. Notable for their involvement in the Mob, these families have been the subject of numerous books, films, and investigations over the years.

The Modern Gang Reality

Fast forward to today, the landscape of gangs in the United States has shifted dramatically. While organized crime syndicates like the Five Families still exist, a new wave of gang activity has emerged, reflecting the changing social, economic, and political conditions of the nation. Here, we explore some of the more prominent groups and their influence.

Notable Modern Gangs and Outlaw Groups

From the Mexican Mafia to the Jamaican Posse, Bloods, Crips, and Latin Kings, the United States today is home to a vast array of gangs and criminal networks. These groups are not just local entities but have national impacts, often operating across states and borders.

California

In California, the state known for its diverse population and rich cultural heritage, various gangs have carved out significant territories. One notable group is the 18th Street Gang, known for drug trafficking and other violent crimes. The Abergil crime family, Armenian Power, Bahala Na Gang, Bloods, Crips, Devils Diciples, Diablos Motorcycle Club, Fresno Bulldogs, and others make up the complex web of gang activity in the region.

Distinct Gang Families and Clubs

Modern gangs often have sub-groups and clubs that operate under broader gang affiliations. For example, Chosen Few MC is one of the first mixed-race outlaw motorcycle clubs, while Hell's Angels is a well-known outlaw biker group. Other notable motorcycle clubs include the Mongols, Pagans, Sons of Silence, and Warlocks. These groups maintain a strict code of conduct and are often involved in various illegal activities, including drug trafficking, extortion, and violence.

State-Specific Gangs

Understanding gangs across different states can provide a comprehensive view of the gang landscape in the United States. Let's take a closer look at some gangs based on their state:

California

18th Street Gang Abergil crime family Armenian Power Bahala Na Gang BLOODS Crips Devils Diciples Diablos Motorcycle Club Fresno Bulldogs Galloping Goose Motorcycle Club Gypsy Joker Motorcycle Club Hells Angels Latin Kings gang Los Angeles crime family Menace of Destruction Mongols Motorcycle Club Moonshiners Motorcycle Club MS-13 Norteos Peckerwood Nazi Lowriders Public Enemy No. 1 Rancho San Pedro Gang Satanas Sinaloa Cartel

Conclusion

The history and current state of gangs in the United States are a testament to the resilience and adaptability of criminal organizations. From the bootleggers of the 1920s to the modern gangs operating across states and borders, the U.S. has a deep-rooted history of gang activity. Understanding these groups is crucial for law enforcement, policymakers, and the general public to address and mitigate the impacts of gang crime in the country.