Charles Manson

The manipulative leader of the "Manson Family," a quasi-communal cult that committed a series of high-profile murders in 1969. He formulated a twisted prophecy called "Helter Skelter," named after a Beatles song, which predicted an apocalyptic race war. He used a combination of LSD, psychological isolation, and "ego-stripping" techniques to exert absolute control over his young followers. He viewed himself as a manifestation of both Christ and Satan, preaching a philosophy of total moral vacuum. Though he never personally killed anyone during the Tate-LaBianca murders, his psychological influence made him one of the most feared figures in American history.