America has a long and complicated history with gangs. From their origins in urban struggles for power to their modern-day influence in music, fashion, and social media, gangs continue to be a major part of the country's underground subcultures. While their activities often revolve around crime, violence, and territorial disputes, they also shape popular culture in unexpected ways. Here’s a deep dive into some of the most notorious gangs in the U.S., their street symbols, initiation techniques, and unique traits.
The Bloods originated in Los Angeles in the early 1970s as a response to the rise of the Crips. Over the years, the gang has spread across the country, engaging in drug trafficking, extortion, and violent rivalries. They are known for wearing red, using a hand sign that spells out “Blood” with their fingers, and marking their allegiance with the number 5, a five-point star, or a dog paw tattoo. New recruits must endure a brutal beating from fellow members for a set period (often 31 seconds) or commit a violent act as part of their initiation. Their streetwear typically includes red bandanas, Nike Cortez sneakers, and sports jerseys from teams like the Chicago Bulls or San Francisco 49ers.
The Crips, founded in Los Angeles in the late 1960s, initially formed as a community defense group but evolved into one of the largest and most notorious street gangs in America. They are recognized by their signature blue color, the “C” hand sign, and symbols like the six-pointed star and the number 6, which connects them to the Folk Nation. Initiation into the Crips often involves being “jumped in” through a physical beating or committing a violent crime. Their streetwear often includes blue bandanas and clothing representing teams like the Los Angeles Dodgers and Seattle Mariners.
The Latin Kings, one of the largest Hispanic gangs in the U.S., originated in Chicago in the 1940s. They follow a structured hierarchy and adhere to the King Manifesto. Their symbols include black and gold colors, a five-point crown, lion heads, and the number 5. Members signal their allegiance with a hand sign forming an “L” and must endure a group beating and swear loyalty to the gang’s code. Their streetwear often features black and gold, with apparel from teams like the Pittsburgh Pirates and Chicago Bulls.
MS-13, or Mara Salvatrucha, was founded in Los Angeles in the 1980s by Salvadoran immigrants and is infamous for extreme violence. Their symbols include blue and white colors, the “MS” tattoo, skulls, and the number 13. Members often flash a devil horn hand sign. Initiation into MS-13 involves a 13-second beatdown or committing murder to prove loyalty. They often wear Nike Cortez shoes, bandanas, and clothing representing El Salvador.
The Aryan Brotherhood, a white supremacist gang, originated in the prison system in the 1960s and operates both inside and outside of prison walls. Their symbols include swastikas, shamrocks, and the number 88, which represents “Heil Hitler.” Tattoos featuring “AB” or Nazi-related imagery are common among members. New recruits may be required to commit murder as part of their initiation, and breaking the gang’s code is punishable by death. Aryan Brotherhood members typically wear neutral or prison-related attire but lean into white nationalist aesthetics.
The Gangster Disciples formed in Chicago in the 1960s and are part of the Folk Nation. They have a structured leadership system and are recognized by their black and blue colors, the six-pointed star, and the number 6. Their hand sign resembles a pitchfork. Initiation involves enduring a group beating and strict adherence to the gang’s rules, with disobedience leading to severe punishment. Their streetwear often features apparel from the Chicago Bulls or Duke University, aligning with their color scheme.
While gangs are responsible for significant criminal activity, they also leave a mark on American culture, influencing rap music, streetwear fashion, and even social media trends. The symbolism, rituals, and aesthetics of these groups shape both underground and mainstream communities, making their presence felt far beyond the streets. Understanding their inner workings offers insight into the complexities of power, identity, and survival in urban America.