Documenting Hate: New American Nazis

Jun 4, 2024

Documenting Hate: New American Nazis

Key Incidents

  • Charlottesville and Pittsburgh: Violent outbreaks involving white supremacists and neo-Nazis.
  • Pittsburgh Synagogue Shooting (Oct 27, 2018): Robert Bowers killed 11 Jewish worshippers at Tree of Life synagogue.

Investigation into Neo-Nazi Activities

Uncovering the Movement:

  • A.C. Thompson: Reporter investigating the white supremacist movement's methods, recruitment, and ideology.
  • Recruitment of Military Members: Revealed their active efforts to recruit members from the military.
  • Charlottesville Violence: Identified groups involved, e.g., Rise Above Movement (RAM).
  • Atomwaffen Division: The most extreme, promotes Nazi ideology, and engages in lone wolf attacks.

Ideological Foundations

James Mason and 'Siege':

  • Atomwaffen members are required to read Mason's newsletter which advocates Nazi extremism and violent rebellion.
  • Mason idolizes Charles Manson and has a disturbing collection of his writings and correspondence.

Atomwaffen Division

Key Locations and Figures:

  • Brandon Russell: Founder, National Guardsman, found with explosives.
  • Devon Arthurs: Member who killed two roommates, alerting police to Atomwaffen's activities.

Incidents and Investigations:

  • Tampa apartment investigations revealed bomb-making activities and connections to Oklahoma City bomber Timothy McVeigh.
  • Arrests led to the discovery of more planned attacks and connections.

Military and White Supremacy

  • Recruitment and Training:
    • Atomwaffen recruits veterans and active military members to train others.
    • Death Valley hate camp: Members train in guerrilla tactics and firearms.
    • Existence of