The tapestry of American society, rich in its diversities and narratives, is interwoven with a myriad of subcultures, movements, and ideologies. Among these are militia groups, which have been part of the American story since its early days. Historically, these militias acted as a form of local defense and were often critical in the establishment and growth of the United States. However, modern-day militias can be vastly different from their historical counterparts.
Contemporary militia groups often emerge from concerns about the potential erosion of constitutional rights, government overreach, or societal collapse. They range from survivalist groups preparing for catastrophic events to organizations with political agendas. While many militia groups advocate for the strict interpretation of the Second Amendment and see themselves as defenders of the Constitution, there are factions that have garnered attention for extremist views and actions. Some of these groups have even been designated as “Domestic Terrorist” organizations by the US Government.
Yet, it’s essential to differentiate between those militias with genuine extremist ideologies and those merely seeking self-reliance or preparing for potential hardships. Painting all militias with a broad brush would be an oversimplification and could perpetuate misunderstandings.
A List of Some Known Militia Groups and Their Leaders/Organizers:
- Oath Keepers: Founded by Stewart Rhodes in 2009, this group describes itself as a non-partisan association of current and former military, police, and first responders. They vow to uphold their oath to defend the Constitution, but have faced scrutiny for their involvement in certain political events.
- Three Percenters: Referring to the claimed three percent of colonists who took up arms against the British during the American Revolution, this is a loosely affiliated movement. Leaders and organizers vary by state since local chapters are relatively autonomous.
- Militia of Montana (MoM): Founded in the 1990s by John Trochmann and his relatives, this group emerged out of concerns about government overreach and a potential New World Order.
- Boogaloo Movement: A recent and decentralized movement, members are often referred to as “Boogaloo Bois”. They are known for their Hawaiian shirts and expect a forthcoming civil conflict. Due to its decentralization, it lacks a clear, singular leader.
- Michigan Militia: Founded in the 1990s, this group was one of the largest and most notable militias during that period. Leadership has changed hands multiple times, with figures like Norman Olson playing prominent roles in its history.
- The Wolverine Watchmen: A more recent militia group from Michigan, it gained notoriety for an alleged plot to kidnap Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer.
While this list provides an overview of some of the militia groups in the USA, it’s important to approach the topic with an open mind and avoid over-generalizations. The motivations, ideologies, and actions of these groups can vary significantly.
