The term "gang" originally had no negative connotations. In Old English, the term simply referred to a number of people who went around together as a group (Osman, 1999). Today, a gang is commonly defined in four ways:
1. An organized group with a leader.
2. A unified group that usually remains together during peaceful times as well as times of conflict.
3. A group whose members show unity through their language and clothing.
4. A group whose activities are criminal and threatening to the larger society.
This study focuses on gangs that fall within the scope of the last provided definition. Prior to the early 1800s, no gangs fitting this definition could be found in America. However, from the beginning of the European settlement in America, there was gang-like activity, especially as class distinctions developed (Olen, 1991). Gang members tended to be from the poorer classes and were typically composed of members of the same race or ethnic backgrounds.
These early gangs banded together for protection or financial gain. In the 19th century, criminally-oriented gangs were first formed. These gangs were formed as the result of a worsening economy and a growing population that increased competition for jobs; soon, gangs began to specialized in crime and became a part of America's cities (Quicker, 1983).
After World War II, gang membership became younger. The nationality of the membership changed, becoming primarily non-white. Drug involvement in gangs grew, becoming a public concern. Gang activity was now centered, in far great part, around large-scale, well-organized street fighting. Firearms were used more often. The organizational structure (e.g., goals, roles, etc.), became more rigid. It was at this point that society at large became strongly concerned with gangs as a social problem and started to work together toward rehabilitation of gang members.
During the 1950s, gang fighting rose to an all time h...