NCJ Number
193137
Date Published
2001
Length
33 pages
Annotation
This chapter examines the major hate-motivated groups and patriot groups operating in the United States in the 1990's.
Abstract
Christian and often anti-Christian in nature, Black hate groups, including the Nation of Islam and the New Black Panther Party, espouse racist, anti-white rhetoric and propose an extremist agenda of Black nationalism. Patriot groups believe in an elaborate conspiratorial theory, which includes the idea that political and economic events, such as legal limits on gun ownership, are part of a larger plan to enslave Americans. By the end of the 1960's, the distinctions between the hate and patriot movements began to wane. Patriot movements started to embrace racist rhetoric and encouraged members from the racist right wing into their organizations. The survival of these hate groups has recently been questioned given the decease in far-right activity that started in 1998. Several factors contributed to this decline: many members became tired of working for a cause that seemed less important; newly passed laws and State legislation showed these groups that hate and patriot crime will be punished; and, many members from both movements retired from active duty. While right wing activity has been decreasing this does not mean that it is not a threat. Those members who stay in the movement are among the most violent members of society. The hate groups have learned to capitalize on the political, social, and economic problems of the times. They should be constantly monitored and severely punished for their activities.