NCJ Number
136568
Date Published
1991
Length
80 pages
Annotation
The Black Liberation Army (BLA) is an urban guerrilla group closely patterned after the principles of Carlos Marighella.
Abstract
Marighella proposes two essential objectives for the urban guerrilla: physical liquidation of armed forces and police chiefs and assistants, and appropriation of government resources and those belonging to the elite classes. The BLA, originating in 1971, has the two primary goals of killing police officers and expropriating funds from capitalists and imperialists to finance the revolution. Because of police officer murders and robberies of armored cars and banks, many BLA leaders and members have been incarcerated or killed. Although the group appeared to be dormant from the late 1970's to the early 1980's, recent events indicate a renewed enthusiasm for BLA goals. Reasons for the renewed interest include the erosion of civil rights gains, a slumping economy, and overcrowded prisons. Both background and current information is provided on the BLA organization, activities, and significant leaders. Recommendations for further research are offered. References