The document discusses the evolution of street gangs through three generations: first, turf-oriented gangs focused on local criminal activity and protection; second, entrepreneurial gangs protecting drug markets using violence; third, highly sophisticated gangs with global political and economic aims operating like militaries. Key factors driving this evolution are politicization, internationalization, and sophistication. Potential third generation gangs mentioned include MS-13, Gangster Disciples, and others. These gangs pose significant national security threats due to their power, violence, ability to target states, and operate across borders.

1. 3G2 Based on the coining and development of the phrase Third Generation Street Gangs by John P. Sullivan and Dr. Robert Bunker

2. Third Generation Street Gangs Some gangs evolve/transition through three generations Turf gangs Market-oriented drug gangs Mix of political and mercenary elements

3. Three factors determine evolutionary potential Politicization Internationalization Sophistication

4. Characteristics of Street Gang Generations

5. First Generation Gangs Traditional street gangs - turf orientation Lower end of extreme societal violence Loose leadership Focus on turf protection and gang loyalty Criminal activity - opportunistic and local Limited in political scope and sophistication

6. Second Generation Gangs Entrepreneurial and drug-centered Protect markets - use violence to control competition Broader market, sometimes overtly political Broader spatial or geographic area Sometimes multi-state and international

7. Third Generation Gangs Evolved political aims Operate or aspire to operate globally Garner power, aid financial acquisition, mercenary-type activities Most primarily mercenary Some seek to further political and social objectives

8. Potential Third Generation Gangs: 18th Street Mara Salvatrucha Gangster Disciples Vice Lords Calle Treinta Pagad Hard Livings

9. Third Generation Gangs Economic and military power equal or better than many nation-states. Propensity for indiscriminate violence, intimidation, coercion, transcending borders, and targeting nation-states Significant national security threats Both regional and transnational phenomenon

10. Bibliography Sullivan, J. P. (2001). Gangs, Hooligans, and Anarchists: The Vanguard of Netwar in the Streets. In J. Arquilla, & D. Ronfeldt (Eds.), Networks and Netwars: The Future of Terror, Crime, and Militancy (pp. pp. 99-126). Santa Monica: RAND. Sullivan, J. P. and Bunker, R. J. (2003) “Drug Cartels, Street Gangs, and Warlords,” in Robert J. Bunker, ed., Nonstate Threats and Future Wars, London: Frank Cass Manwaring, Max G. (2005) Street Gangs: The new urban insurgency. Available at http://www.strategicstudiesinstitute.army.mil/pubs/display.cfm?PubID=597