NCJ Number
195975
Journal
American Behavioral Scientist Volume: 44 Issue: 6 Dated: February 2001 Pages: 957-981
Date Published
February 2001
Length
25 pages
Annotation
This article provides an overview of the militia movement in America as it has developed over the past several years; what to expect from it in the future is also discussed.
Abstract
In discussing the origins and ideology of the militia movement, it is defined as a "loose collection of paramilitary groups that self-identify as "militias" and individuals with strong sympathies for such groups." The immediate origins of the militia movement stem from the aftermath of the standoffs at Ruby Ridge, Idaho, in 1992 and Waco, Texas, in 1993, but the antecedents extend farther back in time. The militia movement inherited paramilitary traditions of earlier groups, especially the conspiratorial, antigovernment Posse Comitatus. The militia movement claims the militia groups are sanctioned by law but uncontrolled by government. In fact, their aim is to oppose a tyrannical government that they believe aims to eradicate the freedoms of grassroots citizens. Militias, therefore, become composed of citizens who arm themselves in preparation for combat against a government that threatens their perceived rights. Adherents of the militia movement believe that behind the "tyranny" is a left-wing, globalist conspiracy known as the New World Order. The movement's ideology has led some adherents to commit criminal acts, including the stockpiling of illegal weapons and explosives and plotting to destroy buildings or assassinate public officials, along with lesser confrontations. The militia movement may strongly and even violently oppose such government-sanctioned actions as abortion, restrictions on property rights, and taxes. The key issue, however, is and will remain the possession of firearms. Any government action that restricts access to firearms is strongly opposed. 13 notes and 122 references