Motorcycle Clubs in the 20th Century
Importance and influence of motorcycle clubs during this era
Unveiling the Legends: The Hells Angels Motorcycle Club
When anyone mentions these two words, “Motorcycle Club” most people think of the Hells Angels. They have roaring engines, leather jackets, and the iconic winged skull emblem. The club has become synonymous with the rebellious spirit of motorcycling. Its reach today in 2023 is far greater than ever but how did it all start? Let’s delve back into history to check out how the club came to be.
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The Birth of a Brotherhood:
The Hells Angels Motorcycle Club was founded in Fontana, California, in 1948 by a group of World War II veterans. The name itself is said to have originated from one of the squadrons in the Flying Tigers, a U.S. fighter group from the war. The club’s early days were marked by a passion for motorcycles and a shared sense of camaraderie among its members.
Rapid Expansion:
The Hells Angels quickly gained momentum and expanded beyond California, establishing chapters across the United States. The club’s distinctive colours, including the infamous “death’s head” logo, became symbols of their identity and commitment to the brotherhood. By the 1960s, the Hells Angels had also made their presence felt in Canada and around the globe.
Controversies and Confrontations:
Throughout their history, the Hells Angels have been involved in numerous controversies, often finding themselves at odds with law enforcement and rival motorcycle clubs. The infamous Altamont Free Concert in 1969, where a Hells Angels member fatally stabbed a concertgoer, remains a dark chapter in the club’s history. Despite such incidents, the Hells Angels continued to grow in numbers and influence.
The Code of Silence:
One of the defining features of the Hells Angels is their strict code of silence. Members are known for their reluctance to speak to the media or law enforcement, fostering an aura of mystery around the club. This silence has made it challenging for outsiders to truly understand the inner workings and dynamics of the organization.
Quotes from the Brotherhood:
While the Hells Angels maintain a closed and secretive nature, some members have offered insights into their world. Sonny Barger, a prominent figure in the club’s history, once stated, “When we do right, nobody remembers. When we do wrong, nobody forgets.” This sentiment encapsulates the complex reputation and public perception surrounding the Hells Angels.
The Legacy Continues:
As the Hells Angels Motorcycle Club approaches its latest anniversary, it remains an enduring symbol of rebellion and brotherhood in the world of motorcycling. While controversies continue to surround the club, its legacy is undeniable, leaving an indelible mark on the history of motorcycle culture.
Conclusion:
The Hells Angels Motorcycle Club’s history is a tapestry woven with threads of rebellion, brotherhood, and controversy. As the most famous of all Motorcycle clubs, it’s essential to acknowledge the impact they’ve had on motorcycle culture and the enduring mystique that surrounds this iconic club.
The Other Big Three Motorcycle Clubs
The Outlaws Motorcycle Club
The Outlaws Motorcycle Club is a notorious motorcycle gang with a history dating back to 1935 in McCook, Illinois. Initially formed as a non-outlaw motorcycle club, they later gained a reputation for engaging in criminal activities. The club expanded over the years and became one of the “Big Four” outlaw motorcycle clubs in the United States. The Outlaws have faced legal issues, conflicts with rival gangs such as the Hells Angels, and law enforcement scrutiny. Despite this, they continue to exist and maintain a presence in various countries.
The Pagans Motorcycle Club
The Pagans Motorcycle Club is a prominent outlaw motorcycle gang that was established in 1959 in Maryland, USA. Known for its distinctive patch featuring the Norse god Surtr, the club has a history marked by various criminal activities, including drug trafficking, violence, and organized crime. Over the years, the Pagans have been involved in conflicts with rival motorcycle clubs, such as the Hells Angels, leading to a turbulent history of feuds and clashes.
The club has faced legal scrutiny, with law enforcement efforts targeting their criminal activities. Despite challenges, the Pagans Motorcycle Club remains active, and its history reflects the complex dynamics of outlaw motorcycle culture in the United States.
The Boozefighters Motorcycle Club
Sure thing! The Boozefighters Motorcycle Club (BFMC) is one of the oldest motorcycle clubs in the United States. It was founded in 1946 by a group of World War II veterans in California, specifically in the Mojave Desert. The club gained prominence and recognition when they were featured in the iconic Hollister riot of 1947, which was later sensationalized in the movie “The Wild One” starring Marlon Brando.
The Boozefighters have a rich history within the motorcycle culture, known for their camaraderie and involvement in various motorcycle events and rallies. Over the years, they’ve expanded to have chapters across the United States, contributing to the broader motorcycle community. The club has maintained its focus on riding, brotherhood, and a love for motorcycles.
Other notable motorcycle clubs of the 1960s
Gypsy Jokers MC
The Gypsy Jokers is a motorcycle club that originated in the United States in 1956. It was founded in San Francisco, California, and eventually expanded to other regions. The club gained notoriety for its involvement in the outlaw motorcycle club culture. Over the years, the Gypsy Jokers faced legal challenges and controversies, including clashes with law enforcement and rival motorcycle clubs. In 2023 they have a presence in various countries, including Australia and Noway and their history is marked by a mix of motorcycle culture, rebellious spirit, and legal troubles.
Coffin Cheaters MC
The Coffin Cheaters Motorcycle Club is an Australian outlaw motorcycle gang that was founded in Perth, Western Australia, in 1971. The club has a significant presence in the region and has been involved in various motorcycle-related activities. Like many outlaw motorcycle clubs, the Coffin Cheaters have faced legal issues and controversies over the years. They are known for their distinctive club logo featuring a skeleton in a coffin, reflecting their rebellious and countercultural identity within the motorcycle club community.
Bandidos MC
The Bandidos Motorcycle Club is a well-known outlaw motorcycle gang founded in 1966 in Houston, Texas. The club was established by Donald Eugene Chambers and a group of disenchanted members from the Comancheros Motorcycle Club. Over the years, the Bandidos expanded internationally, with chapters in various countries.
The club has had a turbulent history marked by conflicts with other motorcycle clubs, particularly the Hells Angels. Rivalries have led to violent clashes, earning the Bandidos a reputation for involvement in criminal activities. Despite controversies, the Bandidos remain a prominent presence in the motorcycle club scene, with a complex and often secretive organizational structure.
