NCJ Number
130646
Journal
Terrorism Volume: 13 Issue: 3 Dated: (May-June 1990) Pages: 195-213
Date Published
1990
Length
19 pages
Annotation
Based on data supplied by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) on 280 known terrorists active in the United States in the 1960's and 1970's, socioeconomic profiles of right-wing and left-wing terrorists were compiled. Isolating for left-right affiliation, gender, and membership status, seven variables are examined; most of the prevailing assumptions regarding the socioeconomic status of both types of terrorists are confirmed.
Abstract
According to the results, members of right-wing, racist groups who are committed to using violence to further their aims are exclusively white, almost always male, and usually from middle- or lower-class backgrounds. They usually pursue blue-collar jobs, hold elementary or high school educations, and belong to a number of Bible-belt religions. However, leaders of right-wing groups, in contrast to the rank-and-file, tend to be more educated, have higher incomes, and hold white-collar jobs. Women are vastly underrepresented in membership and leadership positions. Left-wing terrorists, on the other hand, are male or female with women playing a major role in both leadership and violence. Members and leaders are from a wide variety of religions, are typically well-educated, and have middle- and upper-class backgrounds. These profiles are useful in understanding how terrorist groups are organized and led and may offer insights into effective law enforcement strategies. 13 notes (Author abstract modified)