August 18, 2024 • 34 mins
Charles Manson’s life, a troubled childhood, the formation of a manipulative cult, delusional ideologies, and horrific murders, forms to show an evil side of charisma and leadership.
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Charles Manson's story begins in the shadows of a troubled childhood,
marked by neglect, instability and early brushes with crime.
Born on November 12, 1935 in Cincinnati or higher Manson entered the world
under less than ideal circumstances.
His mother Kathleen Maddox was just 16 years old
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and unprepared for the responsibilities of motherhood.
His father Colonel Walker Henderson, Scott Sessar,
abandoned the family before Manson was born, leaving Kathleen to raise her son alone.
Kathleen's life was a chaotic whirlwind of alcohol and crime.
She was frequently absent, leaving young Charles in the care of various relatives and neighbors.
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This lack of a stable home environment had a profound impact on Manson's psychological development.
He grew up feeling unwanted and unloved,
a sentiment that would later fuel his manipulative and violent tendencies.
By the age of nine, Manson had already begun his descent into criminal behavior.
His first known crime was the burglary of a grocery store.
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This early act of delinquency set the stage for a life marked by increasingly serious offences.
Manson's mother was imprisoned for armed robbery when he was just a child,
forcing him to live with his aunt and uncle in West Virginia.
This period of relative stability was short-lived,
as Manson's behavior continued to spiral out of control.
Manson's early years were spent in and out of juvenile reformatries.
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His time at these institutions was marked by frequent escapes and further criminal activities.
He was sent to the Gibalt School for Boys in Terahorte, Indiana,
a facility for juvenile delinquence run by Catholic priests.
Manson fled the school twice, returning to his mother only to be sent back again.
His repeated attempts to escape and his continued criminal behavior highlighted his deep-seated issues
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with authority and his inability to conform to societal norms.
In Indianapolis, Manson supported himself through a series of burglaries,
eventually getting caught and sent to Boy's Town,
another juvenile facility in Omaha, Nebraska.
His stay there was brief after just four days.
He and another boy stole a car and drove to Illinois,
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where they were apprehended for more robberies.
This pattern of criminal behavior and institutionalization continued throughout Manson's adolescence.
Manson's experiences in these reformatries were brutal.
He later claimed to have been beaten and raped at the Indiana Boy School,
a traumatic experience that likely contributed to his later violent tendencies.
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Despite these hardships, Manson proved to be a cunning and manipulative individual,
traits that would serve him well in his future endeavors.
In 1951, after escaping from the Indiana Boy School,
Manson was sent to the National Training School for Boys in Washington, DC.
Here, he was evaluated for psychological problems
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and deemed to be aggressively anti-social.
This diagnosis was a precursor to the more severe personality disorders
that would later be identified in Manson.
His time at the National Training School was marked by further criminal activities,
including the rape of another boy at Knife Point,
which led to his transfer to a maximum security facility in Ohio.
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By the time Manson was released to his aunt and uncle in 1954,
he was 20 years old and had spent the majority of his life in institutions.
For a brief period, he attempted to live a normal life,
finding honest employment and even getting married.
However, his criminal tendencies soon resurfaced,
leading to further arrests and incarceration.
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Manson's early life was a perfect storm of neglect, abuse and criminal behavior.
These formative experiences shaped him into a manipulative and violent individual,
capable of exerting a terrifying influence over others.
His troubled childhood and early criminal activities laid the groundwork
for the cult leader he would later become,
setting the stage for the horrific events that would shock the world in the late 1960s.
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Following his release from prison in 1967,
Charles Manson moved to San Francisco, a city that was then the epicenter of the counterculture movement.
With the help of a prison acquaintance, he settled into an apartment in Berkeley.
It was here that Manson began to attract a small but devoted group of followers
drawn from the city's Bohemian youth culture.
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Manson's charisma and manipulative skills were key to his recruitment tactics.
He presented himself as a messianic figure,
promising his followers a utopian future.
He targeted individuals who were searching for meaning and belonging,
often those who were disillusioned with mainstream society.
Manson's ability to read people and exploit their vulnerabilities made him a muster manipulator.
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One of Manson's early recruits was Mary Brunner,
a librarian at the University of California, Berkeley.
Manson moved in with Brunner and soon began to attract other followers,
including Lynette Squeaky from and Susan Atkins.
These early followers were mostly young women,
many of whom were estranged from their families and seeking a sense of community.
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Manson's moved to Los Angeles, marked a significant turning point for the group.
In 1968, they settled at Span Ranch,
a dilapidated former movie set in the San Fernando Valley.
The ranch, owned by the elderly and blind George Span,
provided the perfect setting for Manson to consolidate his control over his followers.
In exchange for free accommodation,
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the Manson family members worked on the ranch,
taking care of the horses and maintaining the property.
Blife at Span Ranch was characterized by communal living and a rejection of conventional societal norms.
The group lived in a state of near-constant drug use,
particularly LSD and Amphetamines.
Manson used these drugs as a tool to break down his followers inhibitions
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and reinforce his control over them.
The altered state of consciousness induced by the drugs made his followers more susceptible
to his manipulative tactics.
Manson's recruitment tactics were multifaceted.
He employed a combination of psychological manipulation,
emotional exploitation and charismatic leadership.
He would often use love bombing,
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showering new recruits with affection and attention to make them feel valued and important.
This initial phase of intense positive reinforcement was followed by periods of isolation and emotional abuse,
designed to break down the individual's sense of self
and make them more dependent on Manson and the group.
The communal living arrangement at Span Ranch further reinforced Manson's control.
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By isolating his followers from the outside world,
he was able to create an environment where his beliefs and commands went unchallenged.
The group developed its own internal hierarchy with Manson at the top
surrounded by a core group of loyal followers who helped enforce his rules and maintain order.
Manson's influence over his followers was also bolstered by his use of music.
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He often played the guitar and sang, using his musical talents to create a sense of unity
and shared purpose within the group.
His songs often contained messages that reinforced his apocalyptic beliefs
and his vision of a coming race war, which he called "Helter Skelter".
The role of drugs in the Manson family cannot be overstated.
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LSD, in particular, was used to create a sense of communal bonding
and to break down individual resistance to Manson's ideas.
The drug-induced states of euphoria and altered perception made his followers more
malleable and open to suggestion.
Manson would often orchestrate group LSD trips during which he would deliver long,
rambling monologues about his vision for the future, and his role as a messianic leader.
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The combination of psychological manipulation, drug use,
and communal living created a powerful and insular environment where Manson's influence was absolute.
His followers came to see him as a prophet and a savior,
willing to do anything to please him and further his vision.
This blind devotion would ultimately lead to the horrific crimes that shocked the world
and cemented Manson's place in history as one of the most notorious cult leaders of all time.
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Charles Manson's delusional ideology, particularly his belief in "Helter Skelter",
played a central role in motivating the actions of his followers.
This chapter delves into the twisted beliefs that fueled Manson's apocalyptic vision
and how he used these ideas to manipulate his family.
Manson's concept of "Helter Skelter" was a bizarre and apocalyptic race war prophecy.
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He believed that an impending racial conflict would lead to the downfall of the existing
social order, allowing him and his followers to emerge as the new leaders.
This delusion was heavily influenced by his interpretation of the Beatles' white album,
particularly the song "Helter Skelter".
Manson interpreted the lyrics of "Helter Skelter" as a "Call to Arms",
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believing that the song foretold a violent uprising in which black people would
rise up and overthrow the white population. He saw himself as a messianic figure who would guide
his followers through this chaos and emerge as the leader of a new world order.
This belief was not only delusional but also deeply rooted in Manson's racist views.
The Beatles' music, especially the white album, played a significant role in shaping Manson's
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ideology. He believed that the album contained hidden messages that were meant specifically for him
and his followers. Songs like "Piggy's" "Revolution 9" and "Blackbird" were interpreted by
Manson as prophecies of the coming race war. He claimed that the Beatles were speaking directly
to him through their music, instructing him to prepare for the impending apocalypse.
Manson's delusions were further fueled by his interpretation of the Bible,
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particularly the book of Revelation. He believed that the apocalyptic visions described in the
Bible were aligned with his own prophecies of Helter's Skelter. This combination of religious and
musical influences created a potent and dangerous ideology that Manson used to control his followers.
Manson's belief in Helter's Skelter was not just a private delusion he actively preached
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this ideology to his followers, using it as a means to justify their criminal activities.
He convinced them that they were the chosen ones destined to survive the coming apocalypse and
rebuild society according to his vision. This belief system created a sense of purpose and unity
among the group, making them more willing to commit acts of violence in the name of their leader.
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The influence of Manson's ideology on his followers was large.
They came to see him as a prophet and a savior, willing to do anything to further his vision.
This blind devotion was evident in the horrific crimes they committed, including the take-label
anchor murders. Manson's followers believed that these murders would help trigger the race war he
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had predicted, bringing about the collapse of the existing social order. Manson's manipulation of
his followers through his delusional ideology was a key factor in the group's actions. He used
a combination of psychological manipulation, charismatic leadership, and drug-induced states to
reinforce his control over them. By isolating his followers from the outside world and bombarding
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them with his apocalyptic beliefs, Manson created an insular environment where his word was law.
The concept of Helter's Skelter also served as a means for Manson to maintain control over his
followers. By constantly reminding them of the impending apocalypse, he kept them in a state of fear
and dependence. This fear was a powerful tool, making his followers more susceptible to his
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manipulative tactics and more willing to carry out his commands. Manson's early life was marked by
instability and trauma, which likely contributed to his later psychological issues. From a young age,
he exhibited signs of anti-social behavior, including lying, stealing, and violent outbursts.
These early behaviors were indicative of what would later be diagnosed as anti-social personality
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disorder, ASPD. ASPD is characterized by a long-term pattern of manipulating, exploiting,
or violating the rights of others without any remorse.
Throughout his life, Manson displayed many of the hallmarked traits of a psychopath.
Psychopathy is a personality disorder characterized by persistent anti-social behavior,
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impaired empathy and remorse, and bold, disinhibited, and ecotistical traits.
Manson's charm and charisma allowed him to manipulate those around him effectively,
drawing vulnerable individuals into his orbit and convincing them to commit heinous acts on his
behalf. One of the most comprehensive psychological evaluations of Manson was conducted in 1997
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when he was transferred to Pelican Bay State Prison. This evaluation used several psychological
assessment tools, including the Rorschach Psychodagnostic Test, the Minnesota Multiphysics
Personality Inventory, MMPI2, and the psychopathy checklist revised, PCLR.
The results of these tests painted a picture of a man with severe personality disorders and
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psychopathic traits. The MMPI2 results indicated that Manson had a high level of psychopathic
deviants, paranoia, and schizophrenia. His scores on the PCLR, a tool used to assess the presence
of psychopathy in individuals, were also notably high. These findings were consistent with previous
evaluations that had diagnosed Manson with various personality disorders, including narcissistic
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personality disorder, NPD, and borderline personality disorder. Narcissistic personality disorder is
characterized by a pervasive pattern of grandiosity, a constant need for admiration, and a lack of
empathy for others. Manson's belief in his own messianic destiny and his ability to manipulate
others to fulfill his vision were clear indicators of NPD. His grandiose sense of self-importance
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and his need for constant admiration from his followers were central to his ability to maintain
control over the Manson family. Borderline personality disorder, on the other hand, is marked by
instability in moods, behavior, self-image, and functioning. Individuals with BPD often
experience intense episodes of anger, depression, and anxiety that can last from a few hours todays.
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Manson's erratic behavior, emotional volatility, and impulsive actions were consistent with this
diagnosis. In addition to these personality disorders, Manson was also diagnosed with schizophrenia,
a severe mental disorder characterized by delusions, hallucinations, and disorganized thinking.
Manson's delusional belief in Helter Skelter is apocalyptic race-war prophecy,
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and his interpretation of the Beatles music as messages meant specifically for him were indicative
of his schizophrenic tendencies. Manson's psychopathy and personality disorders made him a highly
dangerous individual. His lack of empathy and remorse, combined with his manipulative skills and
charismatic personality, allowed him to exert a terrifying influence over his followers.
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He was able to exploit their vulnerabilities, using psychological manipulation and emotional
abuse to maintain control over them. Comparing Manson to other notorious cult leaders,
such as Jim Jones and David Kuresh, reveals some common traits.
Like Manson, these leaders exhibited psychopathic and narcissistic traits,
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using their charisma and manipulative skills to control their followers.
However, Manson's unique blend of personality disorders and his ability to create a delusional
ideology that justified violence set him apart as one of the most dangerous cult leaders in history.
Manson's manipulation tactics began with his recruitment process.
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He targeted individuals who were vulnerable in searching for meaning in their lives.
Many of his followers were young women who felt disconnected from society and were looking for a
sense of belonging. Manson presented himself as a charismatic and enlightened leader, who could
provide them with the love and acceptance they craved. He used a technique known as love bombing,
where he showered new recruits with affection and attention, making them feel valued and important.
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Once he had gained their trust, Manson would begin to isolate his followers from their families and friends.
This isolation was a crucial part of his control strategy,
as it cut off any external influences that might challenge his authority.
By creating an insular environment at Span Ranch,
Manson was able to maintain a tight grip on his followers' lives.
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The communal living arrangement further reinforced this isolation,
as the group became increasingly dependent on each other,
and on Manson for their emotional and physical needs.
Manson's use of drugs was another powerful tool in his manipulation arsenal.
He frequently administered LSD and other hallucinogens to his followers,
using these substances to break down their inhibitions and make them more susceptible to his influence.
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During these drug-induced states, Manson would deliver long,
rambling monologues about his apocalyptic visions, and his role as a messianic figure.
The altered state of consciousness induced by the drugs made his followers more receptive
to his ideas and more willing to accept his authority without question.
Emotional manipulation was a key component of Manson's control tactics.
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He would exploit his followers' insecurities and vulnerabilities,
using their fears and desires to manipulate their behavior.
For example, he would often play on their fear of abandonment,
threatening to cast them out of the group if they disobeyed him.
This fear of rejection kept his followers in line and made them more willing to comply with his demands.
Manson also used a technique known as gas lighting to maintain control over his followers.
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Gas lighting is a form of psychological manipulation in which the manipulator seeks to make
the victim doubt their own perceptions and reality.
Manson would frequently contradict himself and create confusion among his followers,
making them question their own memories and experiences.
This tactic undermined their confidence and made them more dependent on Manson for guidance and
validation. One of the most insidious aspects of Manson's manipulation was his ability to
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create a sense of shared identity and purpose among his followers. He convinced them that they
were part of a special, chosen group destined to survive the coming apocalypse and rebuild society
according to his vision. This sense of collective identity and mission created a strong bond
among the group members and reinforced their loyalty to Manson. Manson's manipulation tactics
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were particularly effective on his female followers. He cultivated sexual relationships with many of
the women in the group, using these relationships to further cement his control over them.
By making each woman feel special and valued, he was able to exploit their emotional and physical
dependence on him. This dynamic created a powerful and dangerous loyalty, as the women were
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willing to do anything to please Manson and maintain their place in the group. Case studies of key
followers, such as Susan Atkins, Patricia Crenwinkle and Leslie Van Halton, illustrate the extent of
Manson's influence. Susan Atkins, for example, was a troubled young woman who had experienced
a difficult childhood and struggled with substance abuse. Manson's attention and affection made her
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feel valued and important and she quickly became one of his most devoted followers.
Patricia Crenwinkle Another key follower was similarly drawn to Manson's
charisma and promises of love and acceptance. Leslie Van Halton, who had also experienced a troubled
upbringing, found a sense of purpose and belonging in the Manson family. These women, like many others
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in the group, were willing to commit horrific acts of violence at Manson's behest, driven by their
loyalty to him and their belief in his vision. On the night of August 8, 1969, Manson directed
his followers to the home of actress Sharon Tate and her husband, director Roman Polansky, at one
'05 O'Ciello driving Los Angeles. Manson had previously visited the house when it was rented by
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music producer Terry Melcher, who had rejected Manson's attempts to secure a recording contract.
This rejection fueled Manson's anger and desire for revenge.
Manson sent Charles Tex Watson, Susan Atkins, Patricia Crenwinkle, and Linda Casabian to the
house with instructions to kill everyone inside. Manson's orders were chillingly clear the murders
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were to be as gruesome as possible. When the group arrived at the property, they encountered Steven
Parent, an 18-year-old visiting the estate's caretaker. Watson shot parent to death before the
group entered the main house. Inside, the group found Sharon Tate, who was eight and a half months
pregnant, along with her friends Jay Sebring, Abigail Fulgar and Wajiek Frickowski.
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The victims were subjected to horrific violence. Sebring was shot and stabbed multiple times.
Frickowski and Fulgar attempted to escape but were chased down and brutally murdered.
Tate, who pleaded for the life of her unborn child, was mercilessly stabbed to death by Atkins.
The word "pig" was scrawled on the front door in Tate's blood,
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a macabre signature of the crime.
The following night, Manson himself accompanied his followers on another murderous mission.
This time, the targets were Leno and Rosemary Lebianka, a wealthy couple living in the
Los Phillies neighborhood of Los Angeles. Manson chose the Lebianka's home at random,
seeking to spread fear and chaos. After tying up the couple, Manson left the actual
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killing to his followers, instructing them to carry out the murders in the same brutal fashion as
the previous night. Watson, Cren Winkle and Leslie Van Houten carried out Manson's orders with
chilling efficiency. Leno Lebianka was stabbed multiple times with a carving fork,
which was left protruding from his stomach. Rosemary Lebianka was also viciously stabbed to death.
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The killers used the victims' blood to write messages on the walls, including death to pigs
and hilt a skelter, a misspelled reference to Manson's apocalyptic vision.
The immediate aftermath of the murders was one of shock and horror.
The brutality of the crimes and the high-profile nature of the victims,
particularly Sharon Tate, captured the public's attention and dominated headlines.
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The Los Angeles Police Department initially struggled to connect the Tate and Lebianka murders,
treating them as separate incidents. However, the similarities in the crime scenes and the
messages left in blood eventually led investigators to link the two cases.
The arrest of Manson and his followers brought further revelations about the extent of Manson's
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control over his family and the delusional ideology that motivated the murders.
During the trial, Prosecutor Vincent Bugliosi argued that Manson had orchestrated the murders
to incite a race war, which he called "helter skelter". According to Bugliosi,
Manson believed that the murders would be blamed on African Americans, sparking a violent uprising
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that would lead to the collapse of the existing social order. Manson's indirect involvement in
the murders was a key aspect of the prosecution's case. Although Manson did not physically participate
in the killings, his influence and control over his followers were undeniable. He had created an
environment of fear and dependency, where his followers were willing to commit horrific acts of
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violence to please him and further his apocalyptic vision. The prosecution argued that Manson's ideology
and his direct orders constituted an overt act of conspiracy, making him just as culpable as those
who wielded the knives. The impact of the murders on the victims' families was profound and long
lasting. Sharon Tate's mother, Doris Tate, became a vocal advocate for victims' rights,
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campaigning against the parole of Manson and his followers. The families of the other victims also
struggled with the trauma and loss, their lives forever altered by the senseless violence.
The public reaction to the murders was one of fear and outrage, as the crimes shattered the sense
of safety and security in Los Angeles and beyond. The Tate-Labyanca murders also had a significant
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impact on the cultural landscape. They marked the end of the 1960s counterculture movement,
symbolizing the dark side of the era's experimentation with drugs and alternative lifestyles.
The murders became a cultural touchstone, inspiring numerous books, films and television shows
that explored the Manson family and the horrific events of August 1969.
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The trial of Charles Manson and his followers, which began in 1970, was one of the most
sensational and closely watched legal proceedings in American history. The trial not only exposed the
horrific details of the Tate-Labyanca murders, but also revealed the extent of Manson's control
over his followers and his delusional ideology. The trial commenced on July 24, 1970 in the Hall of
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Justice in Los Angeles. Charles Manson, along with his co-defendant Susan Atkins, Patricia
Crane Winkel and Leslie Van Halton, faced charges of murder and conspiracy to commit murder.
The prosecution, led by Deputy District Attorney Vincent Bukliosi, argued that Manson had orchestrated
the murders to inciter race war, he called Helter Skelter. From the outset, the trial was marked by
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bizarre and disruptive behavior from Manson and his followers. Manson carved an X into his forehead,
later modifying it into a swastika as a symbol of his rejection of society. His co-defendants followed
suit, carving similar marks into their foreheads. Throughout the trial, Manson and his followers
frequently disrupted proceedings without bursts, singing and chanting. At one point, Manson leapt
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across the council table, brandishing a pencil and shouting at the judge, someone should cut your
head off old man. The prosecution's case relied heavily on the testimony of Linda Kasabian,
a former Manson follower who had been present during the Tate murders but did not participate
in the killings. Kasabian was granted immunity in exchange for her testimony against Manson and the
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others. Her detailed account of the events provided a chilling insight into the night of the murders
and Manson's control over his followers. Kasabian described how Manson had instructed the group to kill
everyone at the Tate residence and how they had carried out his orders with brutal efficiency.
Another key witness for the prosecution was Paul Watkins, a former Manson follower who had left
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the group before the murders. Watkins testified about Manson's apocalyptic beliefs and his obsession with
Helter's shelter. He described how Manson had preached about an impending race war and how the
murders were intended to spark this conflict. Watkins' testimony helped to establish Manson's motive
and his influence over his followers. The defense, led by attorney Irving Kanereck, attempted to
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portray Manson as a scapegoat and argued that his followers had acted independently. However,
the disruptive behavior of the defendants undermined their case. Manson's co-defendants frequently
interrupted proceedings, shouted at witnesses and even attempted to physically attack the judge.
Their behavior in court mirrored the chaotic and violent nature of the Manson family,
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reinforcing the prosecution's portrayal of Manson as a manipulative and dangerous leader.
One of the most dramatic moments of the trial came when Manson took the stand in his own defense.
In a rambling and incoherent statement, Manson denied ordering the murders and claimed that his
followers had acted on their own. He portrayed himself as a misunderstood visionary and blame
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society for the actions of his followers. Manson's testimony did little to sway the jury and
only served to highlight his delusional thinking. The trial also featured emotional testimonies from
the families of the victims. Sharon Tate's mother, Doris Tate, delivered a powerful statement about
the impact of her daughter's murder on their family. Her testimony, along with that of other victims'
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families, underscored the devastating human cost of Manson's actions and the need for justice.
On January 25, 1971, after seven months of testimony and 42 hours of deliberation,
the jury found Charles Manson, Susan Atkins, Patricia Crenwinkel, and Leslie Van Halton guilty of
first-degree murder and conspiracy to commit murder. The verdict was a significant victory for the
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prosecution and a vindication of their argument that Manson's ideology and influence made
inculpable for the murders, even though he did not physically participate in the killings.
The sentencing phase of the trial was equally dramatic. On March 29, 1971,
the jury sentenced Manson and his co-defendants to death. However, in 1972,
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the California Supreme Court invalidated the state's death penalty statutes and their
sentences were commuted to life imprisonment. Manson and his followers remained in prison for the
rest of their lives, with Manson dying in 2017. Charles Manson's life in prison was marked by
continued influence, notoriety, and a persistent fascination from the public and media.
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After being sentenced to death in 1971, Manson's sentence was commuted to life imprisonment in 1972,
following the abolition of the death penalty in California. This commutation meant that
Manson would spend the rest of his life behind bars, yet his influence and the public's fascination
with him did not wane. Manson was initially incarcerated at Sam Quentin State prison before
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being transferred to other facilities, including Folsom State Prison and Pelican Bay State Prison.
Throughout his time in prison, Manson maintained a high profile, often engaging in bizarre and
attention-seeking behavior. He carved a swastika into his forehead, a symbol that became synonymous
with his image and ideology. This act was a stark reminder of his violent and racist beliefs,
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further cementing his notoriety. Despite being behind bars,
Manson continued to exert influence over his followers and the public. He received numerous
letters from admirers and maintained contact with some of his former followers. Manson's charisma
and manipulative skills were evident even in prison, as he managed to attract new followers who
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were fascinated by his persona and ideology. These individuals often sought to correspond with him,
visit him, and even advocate for his release. Manson's parole hearings became media spectacles
during significant attention each time they occurred. He was first eligible for parole in 1978,
but his request was denied, as were all subsequent requests. During these hearings,
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Manson's erratic behavior and refusal to show remorse for his crimes only reinforced the
perception of him as a dangerous and unrepentant individual. His statements during these hearings
were often incoherent and filled with his characteristic ramblings about his beliefs and visions.
In prison, Manson continued to cultivate his image as a countercultural icon.
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He recorded music, gave interviews, and even attempted to maintain a semblance of his
cult leadership, his music, which had played a significant role in his life before his incarceration.
Remain demeans for him to express his thoughts and maintain his connection to the outside world.
Some of his recordings were released posthumously, adding to the mystique surrounding his character.
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Manson's influence extended beyond his direct interactions with followers and the media.
His life and crimes inspired numerous books, films, and documentaries, ensuring that his story
remained in the public consciousness. The fascination with Manson was not just about the man himself,
but also about what he represented the dark side of the 1960s counterculture,
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the dangers of charismatic leadership, and the capacity for human violence.
One of the most notable aspects of Manson's continued influence was the way he managed to
maintain control over some of his followers from behind bars.
Lynette Squeaky from, one of Manson's most devoted followers, attempted to assassinate
President Gerald Ford in 1975, claiming she did it to draw attention to Manson's plight.
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Although Manson denied orchestrating the attempt, it highlighted the extent of his influence
and the loyalty he commanded. Manson's life in prison was also marked by numerous disciplinary issues.
He was involved in several violent incidents, including attacks on prison staff and other inmates.
These incidents further demonstrated his inability to conform to societal norms and his
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propensity for violence. Despite these issues, Manson managed to survive in the harsh environment
of maximum security prisons, a testament to his resilience in cunning.
The public's fascination with Manson was also evident in the numerous attempts to profit
from his notoriety. Memorabilia associated with Manson, including letters, artwork, and personal
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items, were often sold for significant sums. This macabre market for Manson related items
underscored the enduring interest in his life and crimes. Manson's death on November 19th,
2017, at the age of 83, marked the end of an era. He died of natural causes at a hospital in
Bakersfield, California, after being transferred from Corker and State prison due to health issues.
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His death prompted a renewed wave of media coverage and public interest, with many reflecting on his
legacy and the impact of his crimes. In the years following his death, Manson's influence and the
fascination with his life have not diminished. His story continues to be a subject of study and
discussion, serving as a cautionary tale about the dangers of charismatic leadership and the capacity
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for human evil. Manson's life in prison, marked by continued influence in notoriety,
is a testament to the enduring impact of his crimes and the darker lore of his persona.
The story of Charles Manson and his cult of insanity is a reminder of the destructive power of
charismatic leadership and the vulnerability of those seeking meaning and belonging, from his
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troubled childhood to the formation of the Manson family. And the horrific murders that shocked the
world, Manson's life is a testament to the depths of human depravity. His delusional ideology,
manipulation tactics, and continued influence from behind bars highlight the enduring impact of his
crimes. Leave a follow if you enjoyed.
[Music]
(00:05):
Please leave a follow and enjoy.
Charles Manson's story begins in the shadows of a troubled childhood,
marked by neglect, instability and early brushes with crime.
Born on November 12, 1935 in Cincinnati or higher Manson entered the world
under less than ideal circumstances.
His mother Kathleen Maddox was just 16 years old
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and unprepared for the responsibilities of motherhood.
His father Colonel Walker Henderson, Scott Sessar,
abandoned the family before Manson was born, leaving Kathleen to raise her son alone.
Kathleen's life was a chaotic whirlwind of alcohol and crime.
She was frequently absent, leaving young Charles in the care of various relatives and neighbors.
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This lack of a stable home environment had a profound impact on Manson's psychological development.
He grew up feeling unwanted and unloved,
a sentiment that would later fuel his manipulative and violent tendencies.
By the age of nine, Manson had already begun his descent into criminal behavior.
His first known crime was the burglary of a grocery store.
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This early act of delinquency set the stage for a life marked by increasingly serious offences.
Manson's mother was imprisoned for armed robbery when he was just a child,
forcing him to live with his aunt and uncle in West Virginia.
This period of relative stability was short-lived,
as Manson's behavior continued to spiral out of control.
Manson's early years were spent in and out of juvenile reformatries.
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His time at these institutions was marked by frequent escapes and further criminal activities.
He was sent to the Gibalt School for Boys in Terahorte, Indiana,
a facility for juvenile delinquence run by Catholic priests.
Manson fled the school twice, returning to his mother only to be sent back again.
His repeated attempts to escape and his continued criminal behavior highlighted his deep-seated issues
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with authority and his inability to conform to societal norms.
In Indianapolis, Manson supported himself through a series of burglaries,
eventually getting caught and sent to Boy's Town,
another juvenile facility in Omaha, Nebraska.
His stay there was brief after just four days.
He and another boy stole a car and drove to Illinois,
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where they were apprehended for more robberies.
This pattern of criminal behavior and institutionalization continued throughout Manson's adolescence.
Manson's experiences in these reformatries were brutal.
He later claimed to have been beaten and raped at the Indiana Boy School,
a traumatic experience that likely contributed to his later violent tendencies.
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Despite these hardships, Manson proved to be a cunning and manipulative individual,
traits that would serve him well in his future endeavors.
In 1951, after escaping from the Indiana Boy School,
Manson was sent to the National Training School for Boys in Washington, DC.
Here, he was evaluated for psychological problems
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and deemed to be aggressively anti-social.
This diagnosis was a precursor to the more severe personality disorders
that would later be identified in Manson.
His time at the National Training School was marked by further criminal activities,
including the rape of another boy at Knife Point,
which led to his transfer to a maximum security facility in Ohio.
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By the time Manson was released to his aunt and uncle in 1954,
he was 20 years old and had spent the majority of his life in institutions.
For a brief period, he attempted to live a normal life,
finding honest employment and even getting married.
However, his criminal tendencies soon resurfaced,
leading to further arrests and incarceration.
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Manson's early life was a perfect storm of neglect, abuse and criminal behavior.
These formative experiences shaped him into a manipulative and violent individual,
capable of exerting a terrifying influence over others.
His troubled childhood and early criminal activities laid the groundwork
for the cult leader he would later become,
setting the stage for the horrific events that would shock the world in the late 1960s.
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Following his release from prison in 1967,
Charles Manson moved to San Francisco, a city that was then the epicenter of the counterculture movement.
With the help of a prison acquaintance, he settled into an apartment in Berkeley.
It was here that Manson began to attract a small but devoted group of followers
drawn from the city's Bohemian youth culture.
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Manson's charisma and manipulative skills were key to his recruitment tactics.
He presented himself as a messianic figure,
promising his followers a utopian future.
He targeted individuals who were searching for meaning and belonging,
often those who were disillusioned with mainstream society.
Manson's ability to read people and exploit their vulnerabilities made him a muster manipulator.
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One of Manson's early recruits was Mary Brunner,
a librarian at the University of California, Berkeley.
Manson moved in with Brunner and soon began to attract other followers,
including Lynette Squeaky from and Susan Atkins.
These early followers were mostly young women,
many of whom were estranged from their families and seeking a sense of community.
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Manson's moved to Los Angeles, marked a significant turning point for the group.
In 1968, they settled at Span Ranch,
a dilapidated former movie set in the San Fernando Valley.
The ranch, owned by the elderly and blind George Span,
provided the perfect setting for Manson to consolidate his control over his followers.
In exchange for free accommodation,
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the Manson family members worked on the ranch,
taking care of the horses and maintaining the property.
Blife at Span Ranch was characterized by communal living and a rejection of conventional societal norms.
The group lived in a state of near-constant drug use,
particularly LSD and Amphetamines.
Manson used these drugs as a tool to break down his followers inhibitions
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and reinforce his control over them.
The altered state of consciousness induced by the drugs made his followers more susceptible
to his manipulative tactics.
Manson's recruitment tactics were multifaceted.
He employed a combination of psychological manipulation,
emotional exploitation and charismatic leadership.
He would often use love bombing,
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showering new recruits with affection and attention to make them feel valued and important.
This initial phase of intense positive reinforcement was followed by periods of isolation and emotional abuse,
designed to break down the individual's sense of self
and make them more dependent on Manson and the group.
The communal living arrangement at Span Ranch further reinforced Manson's control.
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By isolating his followers from the outside world,
he was able to create an environment where his beliefs and commands went unchallenged.
The group developed its own internal hierarchy with Manson at the top
surrounded by a core group of loyal followers who helped enforce his rules and maintain order.
Manson's influence over his followers was also bolstered by his use of music.
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He often played the guitar and sang, using his musical talents to create a sense of unity
and shared purpose within the group.
His songs often contained messages that reinforced his apocalyptic beliefs
and his vision of a coming race war, which he called "Helter Skelter".
The role of drugs in the Manson family cannot be overstated.
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LSD, in particular, was used to create a sense of communal bonding
and to break down individual resistance to Manson's ideas.
The drug-induced states of euphoria and altered perception made his followers more
malleable and open to suggestion.
Manson would often orchestrate group LSD trips during which he would deliver long,
rambling monologues about his vision for the future, and his role as a messianic leader.
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The combination of psychological manipulation, drug use,
and communal living created a powerful and insular environment where Manson's influence was absolute.
His followers came to see him as a prophet and a savior,
willing to do anything to please him and further his vision.
This blind devotion would ultimately lead to the horrific crimes that shocked the world
and cemented Manson's place in history as one of the most notorious cult leaders of all time.
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Charles Manson's delusional ideology, particularly his belief in "Helter Skelter",
played a central role in motivating the actions of his followers.
This chapter delves into the twisted beliefs that fueled Manson's apocalyptic vision
and how he used these ideas to manipulate his family.
Manson's concept of "Helter Skelter" was a bizarre and apocalyptic race war prophecy.
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He believed that an impending racial conflict would lead to the downfall of the existing
social order, allowing him and his followers to emerge as the new leaders.
This delusion was heavily influenced by his interpretation of the Beatles' white album,
particularly the song "Helter Skelter".
Manson interpreted the lyrics of "Helter Skelter" as a "Call to Arms",
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believing that the song foretold a violent uprising in which black people would
rise up and overthrow the white population. He saw himself as a messianic figure who would guide
his followers through this chaos and emerge as the leader of a new world order.
This belief was not only delusional but also deeply rooted in Manson's racist views.
The Beatles' music, especially the white album, played a significant role in shaping Manson's
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ideology. He believed that the album contained hidden messages that were meant specifically for him
and his followers. Songs like "Piggy's" "Revolution 9" and "Blackbird" were interpreted by
Manson as prophecies of the coming race war. He claimed that the Beatles were speaking directly
to him through their music, instructing him to prepare for the impending apocalypse.
Manson's delusions were further fueled by his interpretation of the Bible,
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particularly the book of Revelation. He believed that the apocalyptic visions described in the
Bible were aligned with his own prophecies of Helter's Skelter. This combination of religious and
musical influences created a potent and dangerous ideology that Manson used to control his followers.
Manson's belief in Helter's Skelter was not just a private delusion he actively preached
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this ideology to his followers, using it as a means to justify their criminal activities.
He convinced them that they were the chosen ones destined to survive the coming apocalypse and
rebuild society according to his vision. This belief system created a sense of purpose and unity
among the group, making them more willing to commit acts of violence in the name of their leader.
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The influence of Manson's ideology on his followers was large.
They came to see him as a prophet and a savior, willing to do anything to further his vision.
This blind devotion was evident in the horrific crimes they committed, including the take-label
anchor murders. Manson's followers believed that these murders would help trigger the race war he
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had predicted, bringing about the collapse of the existing social order. Manson's manipulation of
his followers through his delusional ideology was a key factor in the group's actions. He used
a combination of psychological manipulation, charismatic leadership, and drug-induced states to
reinforce his control over them. By isolating his followers from the outside world and bombarding
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them with his apocalyptic beliefs, Manson created an insular environment where his word was law.
The concept of Helter's Skelter also served as a means for Manson to maintain control over his
followers. By constantly reminding them of the impending apocalypse, he kept them in a state of fear
and dependence. This fear was a powerful tool, making his followers more susceptible to his
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manipulative tactics and more willing to carry out his commands. Manson's early life was marked by
instability and trauma, which likely contributed to his later psychological issues. From a young age,
he exhibited signs of anti-social behavior, including lying, stealing, and violent outbursts.
These early behaviors were indicative of what would later be diagnosed as anti-social personality
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disorder, ASPD. ASPD is characterized by a long-term pattern of manipulating, exploiting,
or violating the rights of others without any remorse.
Throughout his life, Manson displayed many of the hallmarked traits of a psychopath.
Psychopathy is a personality disorder characterized by persistent anti-social behavior,
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impaired empathy and remorse, and bold, disinhibited, and ecotistical traits.
Manson's charm and charisma allowed him to manipulate those around him effectively,
drawing vulnerable individuals into his orbit and convincing them to commit heinous acts on his
behalf. One of the most comprehensive psychological evaluations of Manson was conducted in 1997
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when he was transferred to Pelican Bay State Prison. This evaluation used several psychological
assessment tools, including the Rorschach Psychodagnostic Test, the Minnesota Multiphysics
Personality Inventory, MMPI2, and the psychopathy checklist revised, PCLR.
The results of these tests painted a picture of a man with severe personality disorders and
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psychopathic traits. The MMPI2 results indicated that Manson had a high level of psychopathic
deviants, paranoia, and schizophrenia. His scores on the PCLR, a tool used to assess the presence
of psychopathy in individuals, were also notably high. These findings were consistent with previous
evaluations that had diagnosed Manson with various personality disorders, including narcissistic
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personality disorder, NPD, and borderline personality disorder. Narcissistic personality disorder is
characterized by a pervasive pattern of grandiosity, a constant need for admiration, and a lack of
empathy for others. Manson's belief in his own messianic destiny and his ability to manipulate
others to fulfill his vision were clear indicators of NPD. His grandiose sense of self-importance
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and his need for constant admiration from his followers were central to his ability to maintain
control over the Manson family. Borderline personality disorder, on the other hand, is marked by
instability in moods, behavior, self-image, and functioning. Individuals with BPD often
experience intense episodes of anger, depression, and anxiety that can last from a few hours todays.
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Manson's erratic behavior, emotional volatility, and impulsive actions were consistent with this
diagnosis. In addition to these personality disorders, Manson was also diagnosed with schizophrenia,
a severe mental disorder characterized by delusions, hallucinations, and disorganized thinking.
Manson's delusional belief in Helter Skelter is apocalyptic race-war prophecy,
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and his interpretation of the Beatles music as messages meant specifically for him were indicative
of his schizophrenic tendencies. Manson's psychopathy and personality disorders made him a highly
dangerous individual. His lack of empathy and remorse, combined with his manipulative skills and
charismatic personality, allowed him to exert a terrifying influence over his followers.
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He was able to exploit their vulnerabilities, using psychological manipulation and emotional
abuse to maintain control over them. Comparing Manson to other notorious cult leaders,
such as Jim Jones and David Kuresh, reveals some common traits.
Like Manson, these leaders exhibited psychopathic and narcissistic traits,
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using their charisma and manipulative skills to control their followers.
However, Manson's unique blend of personality disorders and his ability to create a delusional
ideology that justified violence set him apart as one of the most dangerous cult leaders in history.
Manson's manipulation tactics began with his recruitment process.
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He targeted individuals who were vulnerable in searching for meaning in their lives.
Many of his followers were young women who felt disconnected from society and were looking for a
sense of belonging. Manson presented himself as a charismatic and enlightened leader, who could
provide them with the love and acceptance they craved. He used a technique known as love bombing,
where he showered new recruits with affection and attention, making them feel valued and important.
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Once he had gained their trust, Manson would begin to isolate his followers from their families and friends.
This isolation was a crucial part of his control strategy,
as it cut off any external influences that might challenge his authority.
By creating an insular environment at Span Ranch,
Manson was able to maintain a tight grip on his followers' lives.
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The communal living arrangement further reinforced this isolation,
as the group became increasingly dependent on each other,
and on Manson for their emotional and physical needs.
Manson's use of drugs was another powerful tool in his manipulation arsenal.
He frequently administered LSD and other hallucinogens to his followers,
using these substances to break down their inhibitions and make them more susceptible to his influence.
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During these drug-induced states, Manson would deliver long,
rambling monologues about his apocalyptic visions, and his role as a messianic figure.
The altered state of consciousness induced by the drugs made his followers more receptive
to his ideas and more willing to accept his authority without question.
Emotional manipulation was a key component of Manson's control tactics.
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He would exploit his followers' insecurities and vulnerabilities,
using their fears and desires to manipulate their behavior.
For example, he would often play on their fear of abandonment,
threatening to cast them out of the group if they disobeyed him.
This fear of rejection kept his followers in line and made them more willing to comply with his demands.
Manson also used a technique known as gas lighting to maintain control over his followers.
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Gas lighting is a form of psychological manipulation in which the manipulator seeks to make
the victim doubt their own perceptions and reality.
Manson would frequently contradict himself and create confusion among his followers,
making them question their own memories and experiences.
This tactic undermined their confidence and made them more dependent on Manson for guidance and
validation. One of the most insidious aspects of Manson's manipulation was his ability to
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create a sense of shared identity and purpose among his followers. He convinced them that they
were part of a special, chosen group destined to survive the coming apocalypse and rebuild society
according to his vision. This sense of collective identity and mission created a strong bond
among the group members and reinforced their loyalty to Manson. Manson's manipulation tactics
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were particularly effective on his female followers. He cultivated sexual relationships with many of
the women in the group, using these relationships to further cement his control over them.
By making each woman feel special and valued, he was able to exploit their emotional and physical
dependence on him. This dynamic created a powerful and dangerous loyalty, as the women were
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willing to do anything to please Manson and maintain their place in the group. Case studies of key
followers, such as Susan Atkins, Patricia Crenwinkle and Leslie Van Halton, illustrate the extent of
Manson's influence. Susan Atkins, for example, was a troubled young woman who had experienced
a difficult childhood and struggled with substance abuse. Manson's attention and affection made her
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feel valued and important and she quickly became one of his most devoted followers.
Patricia Crenwinkle Another key follower was similarly drawn to Manson's
charisma and promises of love and acceptance. Leslie Van Halton, who had also experienced a troubled
upbringing, found a sense of purpose and belonging in the Manson family. These women, like many others
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in the group, were willing to commit horrific acts of violence at Manson's behest, driven by their
loyalty to him and their belief in his vision. On the night of August 8, 1969, Manson directed
his followers to the home of actress Sharon Tate and her husband, director Roman Polansky, at one
'05 O'Ciello driving Los Angeles. Manson had previously visited the house when it was rented by
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music producer Terry Melcher, who had rejected Manson's attempts to secure a recording contract.
This rejection fueled Manson's anger and desire for revenge.
Manson sent Charles Tex Watson, Susan Atkins, Patricia Crenwinkle, and Linda Casabian to the
house with instructions to kill everyone inside. Manson's orders were chillingly clear the murders
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were to be as gruesome as possible. When the group arrived at the property, they encountered Steven
Parent, an 18-year-old visiting the estate's caretaker. Watson shot parent to death before the
group entered the main house. Inside, the group found Sharon Tate, who was eight and a half months
pregnant, along with her friends Jay Sebring, Abigail Fulgar and Wajiek Frickowski.
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The victims were subjected to horrific violence. Sebring was shot and stabbed multiple times.
Frickowski and Fulgar attempted to escape but were chased down and brutally murdered.
Tate, who pleaded for the life of her unborn child, was mercilessly stabbed to death by Atkins.
The word "pig" was scrawled on the front door in Tate's blood,
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a macabre signature of the crime.
The following night, Manson himself accompanied his followers on another murderous mission.
This time, the targets were Leno and Rosemary Lebianka, a wealthy couple living in the
Los Phillies neighborhood of Los Angeles. Manson chose the Lebianka's home at random,
seeking to spread fear and chaos. After tying up the couple, Manson left the actual
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killing to his followers, instructing them to carry out the murders in the same brutal fashion as
the previous night. Watson, Cren Winkle and Leslie Van Houten carried out Manson's orders with
chilling efficiency. Leno Lebianka was stabbed multiple times with a carving fork,
which was left protruding from his stomach. Rosemary Lebianka was also viciously stabbed to death.
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The killers used the victims' blood to write messages on the walls, including death to pigs
and hilt a skelter, a misspelled reference to Manson's apocalyptic vision.
The immediate aftermath of the murders was one of shock and horror.
The brutality of the crimes and the high-profile nature of the victims,
particularly Sharon Tate, captured the public's attention and dominated headlines.
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The Los Angeles Police Department initially struggled to connect the Tate and Lebianka murders,
treating them as separate incidents. However, the similarities in the crime scenes and the
messages left in blood eventually led investigators to link the two cases.
The arrest of Manson and his followers brought further revelations about the extent of Manson's
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control over his family and the delusional ideology that motivated the murders.
During the trial, Prosecutor Vincent Bugliosi argued that Manson had orchestrated the murders
to incite a race war, which he called "helter skelter". According to Bugliosi,
Manson believed that the murders would be blamed on African Americans, sparking a violent uprising
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that would lead to the collapse of the existing social order. Manson's indirect involvement in
the murders was a key aspect of the prosecution's case. Although Manson did not physically participate
in the killings, his influence and control over his followers were undeniable. He had created an
environment of fear and dependency, where his followers were willing to commit horrific acts of
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violence to please him and further his apocalyptic vision. The prosecution argued that Manson's ideology
and his direct orders constituted an overt act of conspiracy, making him just as culpable as those
who wielded the knives. The impact of the murders on the victims' families was profound and long
lasting. Sharon Tate's mother, Doris Tate, became a vocal advocate for victims' rights,
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campaigning against the parole of Manson and his followers. The families of the other victims also
struggled with the trauma and loss, their lives forever altered by the senseless violence.
The public reaction to the murders was one of fear and outrage, as the crimes shattered the sense
of safety and security in Los Angeles and beyond. The Tate-Labyanca murders also had a significant
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impact on the cultural landscape. They marked the end of the 1960s counterculture movement,
symbolizing the dark side of the era's experimentation with drugs and alternative lifestyles.
The murders became a cultural touchstone, inspiring numerous books, films and television shows
that explored the Manson family and the horrific events of August 1969.
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The trial of Charles Manson and his followers, which began in 1970, was one of the most
sensational and closely watched legal proceedings in American history. The trial not only exposed the
horrific details of the Tate-Labyanca murders, but also revealed the extent of Manson's control
over his followers and his delusional ideology. The trial commenced on July 24, 1970 in the Hall of
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Justice in Los Angeles. Charles Manson, along with his co-defendant Susan Atkins, Patricia
Crane Winkel and Leslie Van Halton, faced charges of murder and conspiracy to commit murder.
The prosecution, led by Deputy District Attorney Vincent Bukliosi, argued that Manson had orchestrated
the murders to inciter race war, he called Helter Skelter. From the outset, the trial was marked by
(25:24):
bizarre and disruptive behavior from Manson and his followers. Manson carved an X into his forehead,
later modifying it into a swastika as a symbol of his rejection of society. His co-defendants followed
suit, carving similar marks into their foreheads. Throughout the trial, Manson and his followers
frequently disrupted proceedings without bursts, singing and chanting. At one point, Manson leapt
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across the council table, brandishing a pencil and shouting at the judge, someone should cut your
head off old man. The prosecution's case relied heavily on the testimony of Linda Kasabian,
a former Manson follower who had been present during the Tate murders but did not participate
in the killings. Kasabian was granted immunity in exchange for her testimony against Manson and the
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others. Her detailed account of the events provided a chilling insight into the night of the murders
and Manson's control over his followers. Kasabian described how Manson had instructed the group to kill
everyone at the Tate residence and how they had carried out his orders with brutal efficiency.
Another key witness for the prosecution was Paul Watkins, a former Manson follower who had left
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the group before the murders. Watkins testified about Manson's apocalyptic beliefs and his obsession with
Helter's shelter. He described how Manson had preached about an impending race war and how the
murders were intended to spark this conflict. Watkins' testimony helped to establish Manson's motive
and his influence over his followers. The defense, led by attorney Irving Kanereck, attempted to
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portray Manson as a scapegoat and argued that his followers had acted independently. However,
the disruptive behavior of the defendants undermined their case. Manson's co-defendants frequently
interrupted proceedings, shouted at witnesses and even attempted to physically attack the judge.
Their behavior in court mirrored the chaotic and violent nature of the Manson family,
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reinforcing the prosecution's portrayal of Manson as a manipulative and dangerous leader.
One of the most dramatic moments of the trial came when Manson took the stand in his own defense.
In a rambling and incoherent statement, Manson denied ordering the murders and claimed that his
followers had acted on their own. He portrayed himself as a misunderstood visionary and blame
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society for the actions of his followers. Manson's testimony did little to sway the jury and
only served to highlight his delusional thinking. The trial also featured emotional testimonies from
the families of the victims. Sharon Tate's mother, Doris Tate, delivered a powerful statement about
the impact of her daughter's murder on their family. Her testimony, along with that of other victims'
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families, underscored the devastating human cost of Manson's actions and the need for justice.
On January 25, 1971, after seven months of testimony and 42 hours of deliberation,
the jury found Charles Manson, Susan Atkins, Patricia Crenwinkel, and Leslie Van Halton guilty of
first-degree murder and conspiracy to commit murder. The verdict was a significant victory for the
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prosecution and a vindication of their argument that Manson's ideology and influence made
inculpable for the murders, even though he did not physically participate in the killings.
The sentencing phase of the trial was equally dramatic. On March 29, 1971,
the jury sentenced Manson and his co-defendants to death. However, in 1972,
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the California Supreme Court invalidated the state's death penalty statutes and their
sentences were commuted to life imprisonment. Manson and his followers remained in prison for the
rest of their lives, with Manson dying in 2017. Charles Manson's life in prison was marked by
continued influence, notoriety, and a persistent fascination from the public and media.
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After being sentenced to death in 1971, Manson's sentence was commuted to life imprisonment in 1972,
following the abolition of the death penalty in California. This commutation meant that
Manson would spend the rest of his life behind bars, yet his influence and the public's fascination
with him did not wane. Manson was initially incarcerated at Sam Quentin State prison before
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being transferred to other facilities, including Folsom State Prison and Pelican Bay State Prison.
Throughout his time in prison, Manson maintained a high profile, often engaging in bizarre and
attention-seeking behavior. He carved a swastika into his forehead, a symbol that became synonymous
with his image and ideology. This act was a stark reminder of his violent and racist beliefs,
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further cementing his notoriety. Despite being behind bars,
Manson continued to exert influence over his followers and the public. He received numerous
letters from admirers and maintained contact with some of his former followers. Manson's charisma
and manipulative skills were evident even in prison, as he managed to attract new followers who
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were fascinated by his persona and ideology. These individuals often sought to correspond with him,
visit him, and even advocate for his release. Manson's parole hearings became media spectacles
during significant attention each time they occurred. He was first eligible for parole in 1978,
but his request was denied, as were all subsequent requests. During these hearings,
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Manson's erratic behavior and refusal to show remorse for his crimes only reinforced the
perception of him as a dangerous and unrepentant individual. His statements during these hearings
were often incoherent and filled with his characteristic ramblings about his beliefs and visions.
In prison, Manson continued to cultivate his image as a countercultural icon.
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He recorded music, gave interviews, and even attempted to maintain a semblance of his
cult leadership, his music, which had played a significant role in his life before his incarceration.
Remain demeans for him to express his thoughts and maintain his connection to the outside world.
Some of his recordings were released posthumously, adding to the mystique surrounding his character.
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Manson's influence extended beyond his direct interactions with followers and the media.
His life and crimes inspired numerous books, films, and documentaries, ensuring that his story
remained in the public consciousness. The fascination with Manson was not just about the man himself,
but also about what he represented the dark side of the 1960s counterculture,
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the dangers of charismatic leadership, and the capacity for human violence.
One of the most notable aspects of Manson's continued influence was the way he managed to
maintain control over some of his followers from behind bars.
Lynette Squeaky from, one of Manson's most devoted followers, attempted to assassinate
President Gerald Ford in 1975, claiming she did it to draw attention to Manson's plight.
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Although Manson denied orchestrating the attempt, it highlighted the extent of his influence
and the loyalty he commanded. Manson's life in prison was also marked by numerous disciplinary issues.
He was involved in several violent incidents, including attacks on prison staff and other inmates.
These incidents further demonstrated his inability to conform to societal norms and his
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propensity for violence. Despite these issues, Manson managed to survive in the harsh environment
of maximum security prisons, a testament to his resilience in cunning.
The public's fascination with Manson was also evident in the numerous attempts to profit
from his notoriety. Memorabilia associated with Manson, including letters, artwork, and personal
(33:00):
items, were often sold for significant sums. This macabre market for Manson related items
underscored the enduring interest in his life and crimes. Manson's death on November 19th,
2017, at the age of 83, marked the end of an era. He died of natural causes at a hospital in
Bakersfield, California, after being transferred from Corker and State prison due to health issues.
(33:25):
His death prompted a renewed wave of media coverage and public interest, with many reflecting on his
legacy and the impact of his crimes. In the years following his death, Manson's influence and the
fascination with his life have not diminished. His story continues to be a subject of study and
discussion, serving as a cautionary tale about the dangers of charismatic leadership and the capacity
(33:48):
for human evil. Manson's life in prison, marked by continued influence in notoriety,
is a testament to the enduring impact of his crimes and the darker lore of his persona.
The story of Charles Manson and his cult of insanity is a reminder of the destructive power of
charismatic leadership and the vulnerability of those seeking meaning and belonging, from his
(34:10):
troubled childhood to the formation of the Manson family. And the horrific murders that shocked the
world, Manson's life is a testament to the depths of human depravity. His delusional ideology,
manipulation tactics, and continued influence from behind bars highlight the enduring impact of his
crimes. Leave a follow if you enjoyed.
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