Copeland, David (1976–)

David Copeland is a British neo-Nazi who orchestrated a series of nail bombings in London during the summer of 1999.

Born on May 15, 1976, Copeland grew up in Yately, Hampshire, the second son of middle-class parents. An intelligent youth, he was somewhat shy and withdrawn, and of markedly slight build, a combination that made him the object of much bullying in school. He has stated that he fantasized continually about taking violent revenge on his tormentors from age 12; some observers have suggested that his obsession with domination and violence led him to develop an interest in fascism. Whatever the case, from his teens Copeland was fascinated with Nazism and other right-wing and racist causes. He believed in the superiority of the white race over all others and nurtured a particular, intense loathing for homosexuals.

Although he did well enough in school ...