From John Wilkes Booth to Antifa: The Evolution of Left-Wing Terrorism

This article traces the history of left-wing violence in the United States, beginning with the assassinations of Presidents Lincoln and McKinley, and continuing through various anarchist, Marxist, and nationalist movements. It details significant periods of domestic terrorism, including the bombing campaigns of the early 20th century, the rise of groups like the Weather Underground and Black Liberation Army in the 1970s, and the shift towards eco-terrorism and the emergence of Antifa in more recent times. The piece highlights the FBI’s efforts to combat these threats and the evolving nature of radical activism.

• The article chronicles left-wing violence in the US, starting with the assassinations of Presidents Lincoln (by a Democrat) and McKinley (by an anarchist).
• It details various historical instances of left-wing terrorism, including anarchist bombings in the early 20th century, Marxist-Leninist groups in the 1970s, and eco-terrorism by groups like the ELF and ALF.
• The piece notes the shift in focus over time, from anti-slavery and anarchist ideologies to opposition against the Vietnam War, racism, and later, environmental and animal rights issues.
• Modern movements like Antifa are discussed as the current iteration of left-wing activism, with the FBI designating it a primary concern.
• The article also briefly touches on right-wing violence, mentioning the Ku Klux Klan’s historical actions and a recent DOJ indictment concerning alleged funding for KKK activities.