Delving into California's First Prison Gang: The Mexican Mafia

When you think about prison gangs—what comes to mind? Often, it’s the Mexican Mafia that towers above the rest, casting a long shadow on California's correctional landscape. This gang isn’t just your average group skirmishing over turf; it’s a potent force that’s left its mark on prison culture since the early 1950s. But why is understanding the Mexican Mafia essential if you’re eyeing a path in correctional work? Let’s break it down.