American History

America’s Most Notorious Gangs: From Al Capone to MS-13

Darren - June 15, 2025

From the shadowy streets of Prohibition-era Chicago to the gritty neighborhoods ruled by modern syndicates, criminal gangs have shaped American history in profound ways. Their stories are woven into the fabric of cities, influencing politics, culture, and law enforcement. With notorious leaders like Al Capone and ruthless organizations such as MS-13, these groups have left an indelible mark, fueling both fear and fascination. This article delves into the origins, evolution, and enduring legacy of America’s most infamous gangs—unveiling the power struggles, violence, and resilience that define their legacy.

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1. The Chicago Outfit

The Chicago Outfit, helmed by the legendary Al Capone, dominated the city’s criminal landscape during the tumultuous Prohibition era. Their vast empire spanned bootlegging, gambling, and racketeering, fueling violent turf wars that captured national headlines. Their ruthlessness and ability to corrupt officials made them a model for future organized crime syndicates. The Outfit’s influence stretched far beyond Chicago, shaping the trajectory of American mob activity for generations.

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2. The Five Families of New York

The notorious Five Families—Bonanno, Colombo, Gambino, Genovese, and Lucchese—have been the backbone of the New York Mafia since the 1930s. These powerful clans orchestrated elaborate racketeering schemes, infiltrating labor unions and legitimate businesses alike. Their reach extended far beyond New York, influencing organized crime throughout the United States. With secret alliances and brutal rivalries, their operations became legendary in both law enforcement circles and popular culture.

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3. MS-13 (Mara Salvatrucha)

MS-13 (Mara Salvatrucha) emerged in Los Angeles during the 1980s, rooted in Salvadoran immigrant communities seeking protection and solidarity. Over time, the gang became infamous for its extreme violence, ruthless tactics, and transnational reach. MS-13’s influence now stretches across the United States and deep into Central America, making it a major focus for law enforcement agencies. Its brutal reputation and complex structure set it apart from other gangs.

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4. Bloods

Founded in the early 1970s in Los Angeles, the Bloods quickly rose to prominence as fierce rivals of the Crips. Distinguished by their red attire and strong territorial identity, the Bloods expanded from local street corners to a nationwide presence. Their activities encompass drug trafficking, robbery, and other violent crimes, making them a significant force in American gang culture. The Bloods’ notoriety and influence continue to shape urban life and law enforcement tactics.

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5. Crips

The Crips originated in South Central Los Angeles, carving out a powerful reputation through their distinctive blue clothing and fierce loyalty. Their historic rivalry with the Bloods has fueled decades of violence and shaped the dynamics of urban gang culture across the country. Today, the Crips’ network stretches well beyond California, engaging in drug trafficking, robbery, and other criminal enterprises. Their evolution from local street gang to national syndicate is both complex and influential.

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6. Aryan Brotherhood

The Aryan Brotherhood emerged in the 1960s inside California’s prison system, building a reputation as one of America’s most dangerous white supremacist gangs. Their presence quickly spread beyond prison walls, engaging in extortion, drug trafficking, and murder-for-hire. Their rigid hierarchy and violent code have kept them influential both behind bars and in the wider criminal underworld. Law enforcement continues to monitor their activities closely.

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7. Latin Kings

The Latin Kings were founded in Chicago during the 1940s and have grown into one of the nation’s largest and most organized Hispanic street gangs. Their strict hierarchy and signature gold-and-black colors set them apart, providing a sense of identity and order among members. The gang’s criminal activities include drug trafficking, violent assaults, and organized crime. The Latin Kings’ structure and ability to adapt have ensured their survival across changing landscapes.

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8. 18th Street Gang

Known as Barrio 18, the 18th Street Gang originated in Los Angeles and quickly gained a reputation for its aggressive recruitment of youth and willingness to accept members from diverse backgrounds. This predominantly Latino gang has expanded its network into Central America and beyond, making it a major player on the international stage. Their criminal activities range from drug smuggling and robbery to violent assaults. The gang’s adaptability and reach are key to its enduring influence.

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9. Hells Angels Motorcycle Club

The Hells Angels Motorcycle Club was established in California in 1948, quickly becoming synonymous with the outlaw biker subculture. Famed for their strict codes of loyalty and secrecy, the Hells Angels operate globally, engaging in drug trafficking, arms dealing, and organized acts of violence. Their iconic insignia and rebellious image have made them both feared and romanticized in popular culture. Law enforcement continues to scrutinize their activities closely.

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10. The Black Guerrilla Family

Founded in San Quentin State Prison in 1966, the Black Guerrilla Family (BGF) stands out as a politically-motivated African-American gang. Originally established with aims of prison reform and social justice, the BGF’s legacy is equally marked by violent crime and drug trafficking both inside and outside prison walls. Their revolutionary ideology has influenced both members and rivals, making them a unique force in the gang landscape.

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11. Mexican Mafia (La Eme)

The Mexican Mafia, or La Eme, was formed in California prisons during the 1950s and rapidly became a dominant force among Hispanic gangs. Known for their ruthless discipline and far-reaching influence, they control gang activity both inside correctional facilities and on the streets. The Mexican Mafia relies on extortion, drug trafficking, and orchestrated violence to maintain power and loyalty. Their secretive culture and strict hierarchy make them especially formidable.

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12. Nuestra Familia

Nuestra Familia emerged in California’s prison system as a powerful rival to the Mexican Mafia, drawing its membership mainly from Northern California’s Hispanic population. Known for their strict codes of loyalty and discipline, they are deeply involved in drug trafficking and frequent violent clashes with La Eme. Their influence extends from prison yards to neighborhoods throughout the region, fueling ongoing gang rivalries.

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13. The Yakuza (U.S. operations)

While Yakuza syndicates are rooted in Japan, their presence has reached American shores, particularly in cities like Los Angeles and Honolulu. These organized crime groups bring with them a legacy of extortion, gambling, and drug trafficking, blending their traditions with American criminal networks. Their transnational operations demonstrate the global reach and adaptability of modern gangs. The Yakuza’s influence, though less publicized than domestic gangs, remains significant in certain communities.

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14. Trinitarios

The Trinitarios originated in New York City, formed by Dominican inmates seeking protection and solidarity behind bars. They have since evolved into a violent street and prison gang, with a stronghold in the Bronx and a reputation for drug trafficking and brutal assaults. The Trinitarios gained nationwide infamy following several high-profile attacks that shocked communities and drew attention from law enforcement. Their rapid growth and notoriety continue to influence gang dynamics in New York.

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15. Gangster Disciples

Founded in Chicago during the 1960s, the Gangster Disciples rapidly expanded their influence through drug trafficking, violent turf wars, and organized crime. While their power base remains in the Midwest, their reach extends into prison systems and major cities across the country. Known for their structure and strict codes, the Gangster Disciples have played a pivotal role in shaping Chicago’s gang landscape. Their activities continue to challenge law enforcement efforts.

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16. Vice Lords

The Vice Lords, founded in Chicago during the 1950s, stand as one of the city’s oldest and most structured African-American street gangs. Recognized for their hierarchical organization and influential leadership, the Vice Lords have long been involved in narcotics distribution, robbery, and extortion. Their presence remains significant both on the streets and within correctional facilities, shaping the dynamics of Chicago’s gang landscape. The group’s adaptability has ensured its survival across decades.

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17. Outlaws Motorcycle Club

The Outlaws Motorcycle Club, founded in Illinois in 1935, is one of America’s oldest and most formidable outlaw biker gangs. Fierce rivals to the Hells Angels, the Outlaws maintain a powerful presence across the Midwest, the South, and internationally. Their operations are marked by drug trafficking, arms dealing, and violent confrontations with other gangs. The Outlaws’ reputation for rebellion and danger has cemented their place in the biker subculture.

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18. Florencia 13

Florencia 13 stands as one of Los Angeles’ most formidable street gangs, closely affiliated with the Mexican Mafia. With roots deeply embedded in Southern California’s Latino communities, Florencia 13 is notorious for its violent crime, drug distribution, and territorial dominance. Their influence extends across neighborhoods, making them a significant force in the region’s gang landscape. The gang’s loyalty to La Eme and its adaptability have contributed to its enduring power.

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19. Sureños

The Sureños are a vast coalition of street gangs from Southern California, unified by their allegiance to the Mexican Mafia. Operating in cities across the United States, they are heavily involved in drug trafficking, robbery, extortion, and violent crimes. Their loose structure allows for flexibility and rapid expansion, making them a persistent challenge for law enforcement. Sureños’ influence extends from urban neighborhoods to prison systems nationwide.

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20. Norteños

The Norteños represent a coalition of Northern California Latino gangs fiercely loyal to Nuestra Familia. Their long-standing rivalry with the Sureños fuels much of the ongoing gang violence throughout California. Norteños are deeply involved in narcotics and weapons trafficking, maintaining a structured network both on the streets and within prisons. Their distinct identity and territorial pride keep the conflict with their southern counterparts intense and enduring.

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