Folk Nation
The Folk Nation (commonly referred to as Folk or Folks) is an alliance of street gangs originating in Chicago, established in 1978.[1] The alliance has since spread throughout the United States, particularly the Midwest region of the United States. They are rivals of the People Nation.
| Founded | 1978 |
|---|---|
| Founder | Larry Hoover |
| Founding location | Chicago, Illinois, U.S. |
| Years active | 1978–present |
| Territory | Nationwide |
| Ethnicity | African-American, Latino, Caucasian, Native American |
| Leader(s) | Larry Hoover, Alfonso Ayala Sr. |
| Criminal activities | Drug trafficking, auto theft, burglary, extortion, homicide |
| Rivals | People Nation |
Formation
The Folk Nation was formed on November 11, 1978, within the confines of the Illinois Department of Corrections. Larry Hoover, the chairman of the Gangster Disciple Nation, created the idea for the alliance and persuaded many leaders of large Black, White, and Latino gangs from Chicago to join. Soon after its formation, the People Nation was formed to counter the Folks alliance.
Symbols
Folk Nation symbols include the Star of David,horns, a die with 6 dots facing forward, the digit 6, the Playboy bunnybwith bent ears ,a pointed tail, and a pitchfork
Folk gangs also disrespect People Nation gangs and rival Folk gangs by inverting their rivals' various gang symbols.[2]
Active Gangs
A 1995 report from the Florida Department of Corrections' Security Threat Intelligence Unit listed Folk Nation's major sets as follows:[2]
References
- "FBI - Publications - Law Enforcement Bulletin - December 2001". Archived from the original on January 10, 2008.
- People and Folk Nation Sets (continued) - Gang and Security Threat Group Awareness, archived from the original on August 6, 2008. Accessed March 19, 2019.