The #ABT symbol, originating from the #AryanBrotherhoodofTexas, represents the largest White prison gang in Texas and possibly in the United States. It is associated with an extremely violent gang whose history includes brutal murders.
The group operates both behind bars and on the streets throughout Texas and neighboring states. Despite its name, the ABT is a separate and independent organization from the “original” Aryan Brotherhood, which is primarily associated with the California and federal prison systems.
Because of its size and longevity, dating back to the 1980s, the ABT has developed a variety of both overt and coded tattoos. The typical ABT “shield” or “patch” consists of a shield-like design containing a sword and a swastika, with the gang's initials around the outside. Some tattoos also feature the map of Texas together with the same elements, including ABT, a swastika, a shield, and a shamrock. However, many ABT members may not have this tattoo. Among the coded tattoos, the most common is the use of the number 12 (or the numbers 1 and 2), which serve as numerical substitutions for the letters A and B.
The symbol may also be formed with the hands, as shown in the accompanying images.
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