7-4-14 is a term used by the Gangster Disciples Nation which represents their acronym GDN. G is the 7th letter of the alphabet, D is the 4th letter of the alphabet, and N is the 14th letter of the alphabet, hence the term 7-4-14. The Gangster Disciples are a large, primarily African American gang that was founded in Chicago by Larry Hoover. The Gangster Disciples are regarded as of one of the largest gangs operating in the United States and are a member of the Folk Nation.
7-4-14 is a numerical representation frequently used by members of the Gangster Disciples Nation (GDN) to symbolize their acronym. The code corresponds to letters in the alphabet, with 'G' being the 7th letter, 'D' the 4th, and 'N' the 14th, creating the term "7-4-14." This numeric symbolism serves as a covert method of identifying allegiance among gang members, often displayed in tattoos, graffiti, social media posts, and clothing.
Origin and History
The Gangster Disciples (GDs) originated in Chicago, Illinois, in the late 1960s under the leadership of Larry Hoover. Initially formed through the unification of two smaller gangs—the Supreme Gangsters, led by Hoover, and the Black Disciples, led by David Barksdale—the alliance was known as the Black Gangster Disciple Nation (BGDN). Following internal conflicts and restructuring over the years, the group adopted the simpler title "Gangster Disciples."
Larry Hoover played a significant role not only in organizing but also in shaping the ideological underpinnings of the gang. Under his leadership, the gang developed into a structured organization with a clear hierarchy, rules, and codes of conduct, helping it grow rapidly within and beyond Chicago.
Growth and Structure
The Gangster Disciples quickly expanded across the United States and became one of the largest street gangs in the nation, primarily composed of African American members, though increasingly diverse in recent decades. Their influence stretches beyond Chicago, with documented presence in numerous cities, including Memphis, Atlanta, Milwaukee, and throughout various parts of the American South and Midwest.
Their hierarchy is typically organized into ranks and positions, such as Chairmen, Governors, Regents, and Foot Soldiers, each with clearly defined roles and responsibilities. Communication and membership activities are often coded, with numeric representations such as 7-4-14 used extensively.
Affiliations and Rivalries
The Gangster Disciples are aligned with the Folks Nation, a broader coalition of street gangs. Folks Nation gangs, including GDs, generally identify with the Star of David and use colors like black and blue as symbols of their affiliation. Gangster Disciples commonly display a six-pointed star, pitchforks, and the numbers "7-4-14" as primary symbols.
Their primary rivals include gangs affiliated with the People Nation, such as the Vice Lords, Latin Kings, and Black P. Stones. Rivalries with these gangs have contributed to widespread violence, notably in urban centers where territory and resources are contested.
Legal Issues and Community Impact
The Gangster Disciples have a documented history of involvement in various criminal activities including drug trafficking, extortion, robbery, violent assaults, and homicides. Due to their organized nature, the gang has often been the target of major federal and local law enforcement operations, leading to numerous high-profile indictments and convictions.
Despite their criminal reputation, the Gangster Disciples have intermittently engaged in community outreach and political involvement under initiatives such as Larry Hoover's "Growth and Development" movement. However, these efforts have often been criticized as superficial or tactical moves intended to mask criminal enterprises and improve public perception.
Symbolism and Cultural Influence
The use of numeric codes like 7-4-14 exemplifies the sophisticated symbolism within Gangster Disciples culture. Other symbolic representations include:
- Six-pointed star (representing Life, Loyalty, Knowledge, Wisdom, Understanding, and Love)
- Pitchforks pointed upward (symbolizing defiance, growth, and strength)
- Colors black and blue prominently displayed in clothing and graffiti
These symbols are integral to the identity of the gang and serve as markers of territory, membership, and allegiance.
The Gangster Disciples' influence extends into popular culture, referenced frequently in music, film, and literature. Artists, particularly within hip-hop music, have made numerous references—both explicit and subtle—to the gang’s symbolism, reflecting their impact on broader cultural narratives.
Modern-Day Context
Currently, the Gangster Disciples remain active and continue to face scrutiny from law enforcement agencies. Efforts to dismantle their criminal networks persist, and communities affected by gang violence continually seek solutions to mitigate their influence. Meanwhile, the use of codes like "7-4-14" persists as a means of communication and identification among members, underscoring the enduring legacy and ongoing complexity of the Gangster Disciples Nation.