The Aryan Brotherhood, a notorious white supremacist prison gang, is heavily identified by its distinctive tattoos. These aren’t just random designs; they are potent symbols deeply intertwined with the gang’s ideology, history, and brutal reputation. Understanding Aryan Brotherhoods tattoos means delving into a world of violence, racism, and unwavering allegiance. For those unfamiliar, the Aryan Brotherhood (AB) is not just another gang; it’s the oldest, largest, and arguably deadliest prison gang in the United States, known for its white supremacist beliefs and organized crime activities.
Founded in 1964 within the harsh walls of San Quentin State Prison in California, the Aryan Brotherhood emerged as a response to prison desegregation. Initially formed by Irish immigrants, the gang quickly adopted neo-Nazi ideologies, although their primary focus often shifts between racial hatred and the relentless pursuit of power and profit through criminal enterprises. These enterprises are vast, ranging from extortion and drug trafficking to murder and even prostitution, both within and outside prison walls.
For members of the Aryan Brotherhood, tattoos are more than skin deep. They are declarations of loyalty and visual representations of their commitment to the gang’s brutal code: “blood in, blood out.” This motto signifies the violent initiation process, often requiring new members to commit extreme acts of violence, and the lifelong, inescapable nature of membership. These tattoos serve as a constant reminder of this commitment, both to fellow members and to rivals.
Common Aryan Brotherhoods tattoos feature a range of symbols, each carrying significant weight within the gang’s culture. The shamrock, often combined with a swastika, is a frequent motif, juxtaposing Irish heritage with Nazi symbolism. The letters “AB,” a simple yet direct declaration of affiliation, are also prevalent. Perhaps one of the most recognizable, and chilling, symbols is the number “666,” known as the number of the beast and used to signify their association with evil and defiance of societal norms.
Aryan Brotherhood Shamrock Swastika Tattoo
These tattoos are not merely aesthetic choices; they serve several critical functions within the Aryan Brotherhood. Firstly, they act as identifiers, instantly signaling membership to other members and marking individuals as part of the AB network, both inside and outside of prison. In the dangerous environment of prison, this visual identification can be a matter of survival. Secondly, they serve as tools of intimidation. The aggressive and often overtly racist imagery is designed to instill fear in rival gangs and even law enforcement. The prominent display of these tattoos broadcasts a message of power and ruthlessness.
The spread of the Aryan Brotherhood from California’s state prisons to federal institutions in the 1970s mirrored the dissemination of their tattoo symbolism. As the gang expanded, absorbing smaller skinhead groups and solidifying its organized criminal structure, the tattoos became even more crucial for maintaining cohesion and recognizing members across different facilities. Even paroled members carry these tattoos, a constant reminder of their obligations to the gang and their continued involvement in its criminal activities on the outside.
While the Aryan Brotherhood’s white supremacist ideology is undeniable, their criminal pragmatism often leads them to engage in business with other groups, even those of different racial backgrounds. This complex dynamic highlights that while the racist ideology is a core tenet, the pursuit of profit and power remains a driving force. However, the tattoos remain a constant visual marker of their white supremacist origins and identity, regardless of their opportunistic alliances.
Law enforcement has consistently targeted the Aryan Brotherhood, attempting to dismantle their organization through racketeering and drug trafficking charges. Despite these efforts, and the relocation of leaders to maximum-security facilities, the gang persists. The tattoos, in this context, become almost defiant symbols, worn as badges of honor and resistance against authority.
In conclusion, Aryan Brotherhoods tattoos are far more than just ink on skin. They are complex symbols that represent a violent history, a white supremacist ideology, and an unbreakable, often deadly, commitment to a life of crime. For those bearing them, these tattoos are a brand, a warning, and a lifelong mark of their affiliation with one of America’s most dangerous and infamous prison gangs. Understanding these symbols provides a chilling glimpse into the dark world of the Aryan Brotherhood and the power of visual identity within criminal organizations.
