One of the most violent gangs in the world, MS-13 makes most other gangs look like high schoolers dealing marijuana. It was started in California in the 1980’s when men fleeing from El Salvador’s civil war began a loosely organized gang. Since then, the group has continued to grow and add members with operations throughout North and Central America. In South America, the gang is especially dangerous and known for its heinous crimes against women and children. However, it’s MS-13’s lack of systematic organization that keeps it from being #1.