Gangster Disciples
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
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| In | Chicago, Illinois, U.S. |
|---|---|
| Years active | late 1960s–present |
| Territory | Nationwide |
| Ethnicity | Mostly African American[citation needed] |
| Membership | 60,000 |
| Criminal activities | Drug trafficking, robbery, extortion, murder |
| Allies | Folk Nation, Crips, Los Zetas[citation needed] |
| Rivals | Latin Kings, Black P. Stones, Bloods, Vice Lords |
The Black Gangster Disciple Nation was formed on the South-side of Chicago in the late 1960s, by David Barksdale, leader of the Gonzanto Disciples, and Larry Hoover, leader of the Supreme Disciples. The two groups united to form the Black Gangster Disciple Nation (BGDN).[1]
The gang has made several attempts to legitimize their image. Some members dropped the "B" and began to call themselves GDs or Gangster Disciples. In the 1990s the Gangster Disciples entered into politics through the formation of the "Growth and Development" movement. [1] Outside of Chicago some gangs will still go by the old name of BGD.[2]
Gangster Disciples have been documented in the US military, found in both US and overseas bases.[3] Graffiti characteristic of the Gangster Disciples has been reportedly seen in U.S. military bases in Iraq and Afghanistan. [4]
[edit] Symbols, signs and emblems
Gangster Disciples follow a strict code and use symbols and hand signs to communicate alliances and rivalries.
- an inverted number five to disrespect any gang under the 5 point star.
- Six pointed star, similar to the Star of David A reference and homage to David Barksdale formed using fingers on both hands. The points are supposed to represent life, love, loyalty, wisdom, knowledge and understanding.
- Heart with six wings(tag)
- Shepard's cane inverted (to show disrespect for Vice Lords)
- A three pointed pitch fork aiming upwards
- An inverted pyramid (Peoples Nation symbol when not inverted)
- They will use several colors, including black,blue, gray, silver and white. Among the pro and college sports clothing favored: New York Yankees, Oakland Raiders, Georgetown Hoyas ,Chicago White Sox, Detroit Tigers,Green Bay Packers, Indiana Hoosiers, Georgia Bulldogs, Duke Blue Devils, Georgia Tech, LA Dodgers, Orlando Magic and Arizona State Sun Devils.
Any of these can be incorporated into drawings, onto notes, hand signals, into a private alphabet, or displayed in various forms on clothing and private or public property[5]
[edit] References
- ^ a b [1]
- ^ [2]
- ^ "Gangs Increasing in Military, FBI Says". McClatchy-Tribune Information Services. 30 June 2008. http://www.military.com/news/article/gangs-increasing-in-military-fbi-says.html.
- ^ "Exclusive: Gangs Spreading In The Military". CBS News. 28 July 2007. http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2007/07/28/eveningnews/main3107316.shtml?source=RSSattr=HOME_3107316.
- ^ People and Folk Nation Sets (continued) - Gang and Security Threat Group Awareness
