Theology of Hate

Inside one of the most radical organizations in the history of the American far right During the weekend of July 4, 1999, Benjamin "August" Smith went on a three-day rampage in Illinois and Indiana, attacking Asian Americans, Orthodox Jews, and African Americans. He left two people dead and nine wounded, and then committed suicide. As a former member—resigning the day before the shootings—of the World Church of the Creator (now known as the Creativity Movement), Smith was praised by the leader of the church as "Creator of the Year" for bringing attention to their existence and radical beliefs. Smith's rampage was the first many Americans had heard of this small, previously obscure organization. In this fascinating and comprehensive history of the Creativity Movement, one of the most radical organizations in the history of the American far right, George Michael reminds us that some of the most dangerous radical elements in the United States are home grown.