Charles Manson: Introduction
Charles Manson, a notorious criminal and cult leader, had a disturbing connection to The Beatles. In particular, their 1968 album “The Beatles,” commonly known as “The White Album.” Manson also interpreted several songs from this album as prophetic messages about an impending apocalyptic race war, which he referred to as “Helter Skelter.”
Background on Charles Manson
- Early Life: Charles Manson was born on November 12, 1934. However, he had a troubled childhood and spent much of his early life in and out of reform schools and prisons.
- Formation of the Manson Family: In the late 1960s, Manson gathered a group of followers in California, known as the “Manson Family.” They lived communally and, of course, adhered to Manson’s apocalyptic and racially charged ideology.
Manson’s Connection to The Beatles
- “The White Album”: Released in November 1968, this double album by The Beatles included songs that Manson believed had coded messages.
- Key Songs and Interpretations:
- “Helter Skelter“: Manson interpreted this song as a call to ignite a race war. While the song is actually about a British amusement park ride, Manson saw it as a symbol of chaos and conflict.
- “Piggies“: Manson believed this song was a critique of the wealthy and establishment figures whom he targeted in his ideology.
- “Blackbird“: He thought this song signified the rise of black people.
- “Revolution 9“: The avant-garde track gave Manson a depiction of the violence and chaos of the coming race war.
- “Honey Pie“: Manson saw this song as an indication that The Beatles were calling out to him directly.
The Tate-LaBianca Murders
- The Murders: In August 1969, Manson directed his followers to commit a series of murders in Los Angeles. The most infamous of these were the murders of actress Sharon Tate and several others at her home. The other victims were Leno and Rosemary LaBianca.
- “Helter Skelter” and “Pig” References: At the crime scenes, Manson’s followers wrote words and phrases from “The White Album” songs in blood. For instance, written on a fridge door was the song title “Helter Skelter.”
Trial and Legacy
- Arrest and Trial: Manson and several of his followers were arrested in late 1969 and charged with the murders. During the trial, the prosecution used Manson’s belief in “Helter Skelter” to establish a motive.
- Convictions: Manson was convicted of first-degree murder and conspiracy to commit murder in 1971. Given a life sentence, he will rot in jail for his crimes.
- Cultural Impact: The Manson Family murders had a profound impact on American society, marking the end of the 1960s’ era of peace and love. Moreover, Manson became an infamous symbol of evil. Not only that, but there was a potential for charismatic leaders to manipulate followers into committing heinous acts.
The Beatles’ Reaction
- Disturbance and Denial: The Beatles, especially Paul McCartney and John Lennon, were not happy with Manson’s interpretations of their music. Of course, they denied any intention of inciting violence. Indeed, it gave them cause for concern by the association of their songs with the murders.
Charles Manson: In Conclusion
Charles Manson’s connection to The Beatles highlights the dangerous potential for misinterpreting art and music. Moreover, his delusional interpretations of “The White Album” songs as messages to incite a race war led to one of the most infamous series of crimes in American history.
Indeed, the Manson Family murders remain a chilling reminder of how charismatic leaders can exploit vulnerable individuals to carry out violent and destructive acts.
Charles Manson died in prison on November 19, 2017 (aged 83), over 40 years after his conviction. Finally, if there is any doubt about this character, check out this video.
