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MS 13, or Mara Salvatrucha, is a gang that originated in El Salvador and is infamous for its engagement in violent activities. This gang was formed in the 1980s by Salvadoran immigrants in Los Angeles, primarily as a response to the violence stemming from the civil war in El Salvador and the challenges they faced in a new country. Over the years, MS 13 has expanded its influence not only in the United States but also in Central America, particularly in El Salvador.

The gang is known for operating through a hierarchical structure and engages in various criminal activities, including drug trafficking, extortion, and human trafficking. Their violent reputation has led to widespread fear and policing efforts in communities where they operate, further solidifying their status as a significant threat within the realm of gang activity.

In contrast, while the Black Guerrilla Family, Crips, and Bloods are also well-known gangs, they originate from different backgrounds and geographic regions. The Black Guerrilla Family was founded in San Quentin Prison in California during the 1960s, primarily as a prison-based organization focused on black empowerment and countering oppression. The Crips and Bloods, two of the most notorious gangs in the United States, originated in Los Angeles