The Black Guerrilla Family

The Black Guerrilla Family (BGF) was formed at San Quentin Prison, in California, in 1966, by former Black Panther member George L. Jackson. Influenced by radical political theorists, the BGF is based on a Marxist/Maoist/Leninist ideology. It is one of the most politically oriented of all prison gangs.

The original intent of George Jackson's organization was to rechannel the rebellious energies of African Americans away from crime toward political activity. A gradual shift occurred in the organization's primary function with the adoption of a revolutionary philosophy revolving around the idea of using violence to overthrow the racist, imperialist United States establishment. Many believe Jackson was murdered by prison officials because of his beliefs, whereas others believe he was killed in a thwarted prison escape involving violence ...