5 Modern Cults That Still Exist in the United States

When most people think of cults, the first things that come to mind are either Jim Jones and the People’s Temple, the Manson Family or even Scientology. Those are some of the most famous cults in the history of the United States, but there are still other modern cults that have active members.

1 The Twelve Tribes

Founded almost 60 years ago by Eugene Spriggs, the Twelve Tribes is a coalition of many self-governing communities found in different countries, including the U.S., Germany, Canada and Australia.

The beginning of their manifesto states, “Our Creator is serious about making a radical change if we will be just as serious as [Yahshua] is. If we will abandon everything to follow Him and not just make a religion out of it.” Members believe they are the only people on Earth who are actually connected to Yahshua, which is Hebrew for Jesus.

Before becoming a member, one must give up all possessions, including money in the bank. There is question surrounding discipline of children within the communities, which some account as being unlawful.

2 Aleph and Hikari no Wa

These are the two groups that formed from the split of Aum Shinrikyo, founded by Shoko Asahara in 2014. In 1995, followers of Aum were responsible for a sarin gas attack in a Tokyo subway.

Aleph and Hikari no Wa are supposedly peaceful, religious organizations and have apologized for the tragedy. Their followers are taught through study groups and yoga classes.

3 Cargo Cults of the South Pacific

With annual festivities that include walking around with fake guns and the letters “USA” painted on their chests, this cargo cult is definitely a little strange.

Only one cargo cult remains on an island called Tanna. Their festivities are dedicated to an American soldier, John Frum, who supposedly visited the islands nearly 80 years ago. They hope that he returns and delivers them goods, which would result in the disappearance of the rest of the world.

There is also worship of Prince Philip and a celebration dedicated to him each year.

4 Nuwaubians

Founded by Dwight York – who was sentenced to 135 years in prison for a number of crimes that included over 70 counts of child molestation – this cult possess a black supremacy ideology.

In the 1970s, York developed the Ansaru Allah Community (AAC). Those involved had to give up their possessions and work without pay. In addition, they were not allowed to choose their own spouses. In 1993, York bought a near 500-acre property in Georgia that served as a compound. Dwight pursued underage girls and raped the women in the cult.

Since his arrest, there are still supporters who claim he was framed and are often found protesting.