Los Angeles may be famous for its glitzy Hollywood allure and sun-kissed beaches, but beneath the surface lies a complex web of notorious street gangs that have shaped the city's history. The most infamous gangs in L.A. are as much a part of its identity as its iconic skyline, impacting everything from pop culture to public safety. With a reputation for violence and territorial feuds, these organizations have become an inescapable part of the urban landscape.

Take the 18th Street Gang, for instance. Known for their diversity and international reach, they have been a formidable presence in L.A. for decades. Then there are the West Coast Bloods, whose rivalry with the Crips has become legend not only in the city streets but also in music, film, and television. Speaking of the Crips, their influence stretches across L.A., with a history of expansion and notoriety that cements their place in the gang hierarchy.

These groups and their interconnected histories provide a fascinating, if unsettling, look into L.A.'s underground. Intrigued? There's much more to discover about these and other Los Angeles gangs. Check out the full list below to better understand the forces that continue to shape this dynamic city.