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What is the Gangster Disciples (GD) Gang?
The Gangster Disciples is one of the largest and most well-known street gangs in the United States. Originating in Chicago, the GD gang has expanded nationwide. The Gangster Disciples are active in over 100 American cities in 31 U.S. states, mainly in the Midwestern and Southern United States. They also have a huge presence in the United States prison system. The gang has between 25,000 and 50,000 members. With thousands of members, the gang is known for its strict organizational structure and numerous symbols, hand signs, and graffiti that represent its influence and power.
| Founded | Founded in 1964 in or near Englewood |
| Affiliations | Folk Nation — c. 1978 – 2000 or later |
| Colors | Black and Blue |
| Primary ethnicities | African American |
| Symbols | Winged Heart, Devil Horns, and Devil Tail |
| Status | Active |
The Gangster Disciples: Growth and Expansion
The Gangster Disciples (GD) originated in Chicago during the late 1960s, formed from a merger between two street gangs: the Black Disciples, led by David Barksdale, and the Supreme Gangsters, led by Larry Hoover. Initially, the Disciples started as a way to protect Black communities from rival gangs and oppression, but under Barksdale and later Hoover’s leadership, they became a well-organized criminal organization.
In the 1970s, Barksdale’s death saw Hoover rise as the primary leader, uniting the two groups into the Black Gangster Disciple Nation (BGDN), later simplified to Gangster Disciples. The gang expanded its influence, growing into a national syndicate involved in drug trafficking, extortion, and violence.
In the 1990s, Hoover launched the “Growth and Development” movement, an attempt to rebrand the GDs as a community-focused organization promoting education and political engagement. However, many believed this was a cover for ongoing criminal operations. Despite these efforts, the Gangster Disciples remain one of the most powerful and infamous street gangs in the United States, with chapters across multiple states.
Types of GD Gang Signs
GD gang signs are used widely among its members. They represent loyalty, gang identity, and disrespect for rival gangs like the Bloods and Crips. GD gang signs come in various forms:
- GD hand signs
- GD tattoos
- GD graffiti
- GD colors and clothing
Let’s explore these forms of gang signs in more detail.
Learn about the meanings of various Crip gang signs.
GD Hand Signs
One of the primary ways to identify Gangster Disciples members is through their hand signs. These signs are often made using the hands and fingers to represent symbols or letters, like the pitchfork symbol, which is associated with the GDs. The pitchfork is usually thrown up to show loyalty to the gang, while rivals may throw it down to disrespect the GDs.
GD Tattoos
attoos are another common method for gang members to express affiliation. Gangster Disciples use tattoos with symbols like :
- The number 6: Representing the “6-pointed star,” a significant icon in GD gang culture.
- The pitchfork: Often tattooed as a symbol of loyalty to the gang.
- The letters “GD”: In some cases, members simply ink “GD” on their skin, often alongside other symbols or numbers like “74” (G being the 7th letter and D being the 4th in the alphabet).
GD Graffiti
Graffiti is an important part of gang communication and territory marking. GD graffiti can be seen on walls, street signs, and even personal property.
GD Colors and Clothing
The Gangster Disciples are typically associated with the colors black and blue. Members wear clothing and accessories that incorporate these colors to show their affiliation.
- Black and blue bandanas: These are often worn around the neck, on the head, or hanging from pockets.
- GD symbols on clothing: Some members wear clothing with the pitchfork, 6-pointed star, or “GD” initials printed on them.
Want to learn more about the meanings of gang signs? Visit All About Gang Signs for a complete overview.