Understanding Outlaw Motorcycle Gangs: The Mongols and Mayans in California

In the realm of outlaw motorcycle gangs, two well-known groups in California are the Mongols Motorcycle Club and the Mayans Motorcycle Club. Both of these organizations share a common lineage and pattern, primarily drawing inspiration from the notorious Hells Angels club. This article delves into the history, characteristics, and relationships between these gangs, along with a brief overview of the concept of outlaw motorcycle gangs.

Outlaw Motorcycle Gangs: An Overview

Outlaw motorcycle gangs, often referred to as 'biker clubs,' are groups whose members primarily ride motorcycles and whose activities typically involve criminal behavior. These gangs are characterized by a decentralized structure and a loosely defined set of rules, which often leads to violent conflicts and illegal activities. Unlike legitimate motorcycle clubs, outlaw motorcycle gangs are not officially sanctioned and are frequently associated with organized crime.

The Mongols Motorcycle Club

The Mongols Motorcycle Club, established in 1969 in California, is one such organization that is patterned after the infamous Hells Angels. This gang is known for its involvement in criminal activities and its conflicts with other motorcycle clubs, especially the Hells Angels. The Mongols have a distinct culture and identity, with their own symbols and codes of conduct.

The Mayans Motorcycle Club

Similarly, the Mayans Motorcycle Club, also founded in 1969, is another outlaw motorcycle gang based in California. Like the Mongols, the Mayans are patterned after the Hells Angels and have a sizeable presence in the southwestern United States. They are also involved in various criminal enterprises and often clash with rival gangs, including the Mongols and the Hells Angels. The Mayans share many cultural and symbolic traits with other outlaw motorcycle clubs, including the Mongols.

Myth-Busting and Nuances

While both the Mongols and Mayans are often associated with the notorious Hells Angels, it's important to dispel some common misconceptions. For instance, people sometimes assume that all members within these organizations wear red (a color strongly associated with the Hells Angels). However, the Mongols' attire is not solely red; they may adopt a variety of colors to signify their status or allegiance within the club.

Another point of confusion is the connection between the television show Sons of Anarchy and real-life outlaw motorcycle gangs. While the show draws inspiration from real-life gangs, it is a work of fiction and does not accurately represent all characteristics of these organizations. For instance, one of the gang members in the show is mistakenly believed to be based on a specific color scheme, but the reality is more complex, involving a range of symbols and codes.

The Hells Angels Influence

The influence of the Hells Angels on outlaw motorcycle gangs in California cannot be overstated. The first few seasons of Sons of Anarchy, which prominently featured the character Sonny Barger (a prominent member of the Hells Angels), further underscore the significance of this gang's impact. The Hells Angels have contributed to the mythos of outlaw motorcycle clubs, shaping their culture, symbols, and behaviors.

Real-Life Correlation with Gangs in emSons of Anarchy/em

Several gangs portrayed in Sons of Anarchy are based on real-life Nor-Cal (Northern California) gangs. For instance:

Sons of Anarchy MC: No doubt based on the Hells Angels with a similar backstory and mother charter. Mayans MC: Relates most closely to the Mongols MC, sharing both cultural and structural elements. Calaveras MC: Possibly based on the Raiders MC, an official support club to the Mongols. Devil’s Tribe MC: One of the many small HAMC (Hells Angels Motorcycle Club) support clubs, possibly the Iron Horsemen on a smaller scale. Grim Bastards MC: Represents the East Bay Dragons MC, one of the oldest black motorcycle clubs in the region. Cacuzza Crime Family: Significantly related to the remnants of the San Francisco and San Jose Crime families. Reno Crime Family: One of the 5 Families of NY or Kansas City. Lin Triad: Related to the Wah Ching and/or a foreign-based Triad. Russian Mafia: Remains unclear, but represents organized crime. Lobos Senora: Represents the Los Zetas Cartel. Galindo Cartel: Could represent either the Sinaloa or Tijuana Cartel, depending on the context. Byz Lats: Initially thought to be Nortenos, but due to their appearance in 'The Shield,' they may be Surenos in the north. One-Niners/Pope Organization: Represents the 69 Mob or the 69th gang. LOAN: Likely a front organization for the American Nazi Party. Nordics: General term for a variety of conservative and far-right groups. Aryan Brotherhood and Black Guerilla Family: Real prison gangs with significant differences and histories. True IRA: Represents the Real IRA, not aligned with the official IRA.

Conclusion

Both the Mongols Motorcycle Club and the Mayans Motorcycle Club, operating in California, are deeply rooted in the culture and history of outlaw motorcycle gangs. Their patterns and influences stem from the notorious Hells Angels club, contributing to a rich and complex landscape of motorcycle clubs in the United States. Understanding the nuances and realities of these organizations can provide valuable insights into the world of outlaw motorcycle gangs in California.