Gangster Disciples folks nation

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

[edit] External links

• FBI Freedom of Information/Privacy Act gang profile
• Gangs Using Military For Training, Experts Say. From Army.com
• GANG THREAT ANALYSIS: The Black Disciples