35 Facts About Aryan Brotherhood

Source: Nbcnews.com

The Aryan Brotherhood, often referred to as the AB or The Brand, is one of the most notorious prison gangs in the United States. Founded in the 1960s at San Quentin State Prison, this group has a reputation for extreme violence and organized crime. Did you know that despite making up less than 1% of the prison population, they are responsible for up to 20% of murders within the federal prison system? Their influence extends beyond prison walls, involving drug trafficking, extortion, and other illegal activities. Curious about their history, structure, and operations? This post will delve into 35 intriguing facts about the Aryan Brotherhood, shedding light on their secretive world.

Key Takeaways:

The Aryan Brotherhood, a white supremacist prison gang, was founded in 1964 to protect white inmates. It operates with a strict hierarchy, engages in criminal activities, and has a significant influence both inside and outside prison walls.
Despite law enforcement crackdowns, the Aryan Brotherhood continues to operate and recruit new members. Its portrayal in media and popular culture highlights its violent and ruthless nature, making it a secretive and dangerous organization.

Table of Contents

Origins of the Aryan Brotherhood

The Aryan Brotherhood, often referred to as the AB, is a notorious white supremacist prison gang in the United States. Their history is filled with violence, crime, and a strict code of conduct.

01The Aryan Brotherhood was founded in 1964 at San Quentin State Prison in California.
02Initially, the group was formed to protect white inmates from other racial groups in prison.
03The founders were inspired by the neo-Nazi ideology and the desire to create a brotherhood based on racial purity.
04The AB's symbol is a shamrock clover, often accompanied by the number 666 and the swastika.
05Members often have tattoos of the group's symbols to show their allegiance.

Structure and Hierarchy

The Aryan Brotherhood operates with a strict hierarchy and code of conduct. This structure ensures loyalty and order within the group.

06The AB is led by a council of high-ranking members known as the "Commission."
07Each prison has its own chapter, which reports to the central leadership.
08Members are required to follow a strict code of silence, known as "keeping your mouth shut."
09The group uses a military-style ranking system, with titles such as "Captain" and "Lieutenant."
10New recruits must prove their loyalty through violent acts, often referred to as "blood in, blood out."

Criminal Activities

The Aryan Brotherhood is involved in various criminal activities both inside and outside prison walls. Their operations are extensive and often brutal.

11Drug trafficking is one of the primary sources of income for the AB.
12The group is also involved in extortion, offering "protection" to other inmates for a fee.
13Contract killings are another significant activity, with members often hired to carry out murders.
14The AB has been linked to numerous high-profile murders and assaults within the prison system.
15Outside of prison, the group engages in organized crime, including robbery and arms trafficking.

Membership and Recruitment

Joining the Aryan Brotherhood is not easy. The process is rigorous and often dangerous, ensuring only the most committed individuals become members.

16Prospective members must be sponsored by an existing member.
17The initiation process often involves committing a violent act, such as assault or murder.
18Once initiated, members are expected to show unwavering loyalty to the group.
19Leaving the AB is nearly impossible, with severe consequences for those who try.
20The group has a strict "no snitching" policy, with violators facing death.

Influence and Reach

Despite being a prison gang, the Aryan Brotherhood's influence extends far beyond prison walls. Their reach is both extensive and alarming.

21The AB has connections with other white supremacist groups, such as the Ku Klux Klan.
22They have a significant presence in federal and state prisons across the United States.
23The group's influence extends to the streets, with members involved in various criminal enterprises.
24The AB has been known to collaborate with other gangs for mutual benefit.
25Law enforcement agencies consider the Aryan Brotherhood one of the most dangerous prison gangs in the country.

Legal Battles and Crackdowns

Over the years, law enforcement has made numerous efforts to dismantle the Aryan Brotherhood. These efforts have led to significant legal battles and crackdowns.

26In 2002, a massive federal indictment targeted 40 AB members for various crimes, including murder and racketeering.
27The indictment was one of the largest ever against a prison gang.
28Many high-ranking members received life sentences without the possibility of parole.
29Despite these efforts, the AB continues to operate and recruit new members.
30Law enforcement agencies continue to monitor and combat the group's activities.

Cultural Impact and Media Representation

The Aryan Brotherhood has left a significant mark on popular culture. Their portrayal in media often highlights their violent and ruthless nature.

31The AB has been featured in numerous documentaries and TV shows, such as "Gangland" and "Inside the American Mob."
32Movies like "American History X" and "Shot Caller" depict fictionalized versions of the group.
33The group's symbols and tattoos have become widely recognized in popular culture.
34Books and articles about the Aryan Brotherhood provide in-depth looks at their history and operations.
35Despite their notoriety, the AB remains a secretive and dangerous organization.

Final Thoughts on Aryan Brotherhood Facts

Understanding the Aryan Brotherhood sheds light on one of the most notorious prison gangs. Their origins date back to the 1960s in San Quentin State Prison. Known for extreme violence, they control drug trafficking, extortion, and other illegal activities within prisons. Despite their small numbers, their influence is significant due to their ruthless tactics and strict code of silence. Members often have tattoos featuring symbols like swastikas and shamrocks. The gang's racial ideology is a key part of their identity, though alliances with other groups sometimes occur for mutual benefit. Law enforcement continues to combat their activities, but the Brotherhood remains a powerful force in the criminal underworld. Understanding these facts helps in recognizing the complexities and dangers associated with such groups. Stay informed and aware of the impact they have on society.

Frequently Asked Questions

QWhat is the Aryan Brotherhood?

Often referred to as "The Brand" or "AB," this organization is a notorious prison gang that originated in the United States in 1964. Initially formed for protection against other inmate groups in San Quentin State Prison, California, it has since evolved into a criminal syndicate involved in various illegal activities, including drug trafficking, extortion, and murder, both inside and outside of prisons.

QHow does someone join the Aryan Brotherhood?

Joining the ranks of the AB isn't as simple as signing up. Prospective members must be sponsored by an existing member and then endure a rigorous vetting process. Often, they're required to commit a violent act, referred to as "making your bones," to prove their loyalty and worth to the gang. Membership is considered lifelong, and leaving is not an option without severe consequences.

QAre there any notable symbols associated with the Aryan Brotherhood?

Yes, indeed. Members often sport tattoos featuring Nazi or white supremacist symbols, such as swastikas, SS bolts, and the Celtic cross. Another common emblem is the shamrock, sometimes with the number "666" or the initials "AB" incorporated, symbolizing their allegiance to the gang.

QWhat is the main goal of the Aryan Brotherhood?

While the AB initially formed for protection and racial supremacy ideologies within the prison system, its main goal has shifted towards criminal activities for profit. Power, control, and financial gain through illegal means are now primary objectives, with racial ideology taking a backseat, though still present.

QHow does the Aryan Brotherhood operate within prisons?

Inside prisons, the AB establishes a strict hierarchy and code of conduct among its members. They control various aspects of prison life, including illegal trade and the enforcement of their rules among inmates. Members are expected to follow orders from leaders without question, contributing to the gang's activities or facing severe punishment.

QHas the Aryan Brotherhood been involved in any high-profile crimes?

Absolutely. Over the years, members of the AB have been implicated in numerous violent crimes, both inside and outside of prison walls. This includes murders, assaults, and orchestrating criminal enterprises. Their ruthless nature and strict loyalty oaths make them one of the most feared prison gangs in the U.S.

QHow does law enforcement combat the Aryan Brotherhood?

Combating the AB poses significant challenges due to its secretive nature and the loyalty of its members. However, law enforcement agencies, including the FBI and prison officials, employ various strategies. These include undercover operations, informant networks, and stringent monitoring of known members. Prosecutions often involve charges related to racketeering, drug trafficking, and violent crimes in an effort to dismantle the gang's operations.

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