Difference Between Oath Keepers and Proud Boys

The OathKeepers and the Proud Boys, both American far-right groups, have gained considerable attention in recent years. Though both groups claim to uphold their country's values and uphold constitutional principles, they differ significantly in their ideologies, actions, and the impact they have had on society. This article explores the key differences between these two groups to provide a clearer understanding of their divergent paths.

The OathKeepers: Vow to Protect Constitution

The OathKeepers is a right-wing militia organization that was founded in 2001 in response to perceived infringements on constitutional rights. Its members take an oath to protect the Constitution of the United States and to uphold the principles of the U.S. military. The organization emphasizes that any action taken by its members, whether civil or military, is based on the constitution.

Key Ideology: The OathKeepers believe in the supremacy of the U.S. Constitution and the preservation of the federal system. They actively participate in training camps, engage in political advocacy, and sometimes participate in law enforcement and military training. Their primary objective is to defend what they see as constitutional order and to fight against perceived threats to their rights.

Actions: The group has been involved in various public demonstrations and has supported law enforcement during civil unrest, particularly during the January 6, 2021, insurrection in Washington D.C.

The Proud Boys: Proud of the Country and Its Values

The Proud Boys is another far-right group that was founded in 2018 in response to perceived anti-male and anti-Western sentiments. Members of the Proud Boys pledge to be a brotherhood that will defend men and Western civilization. The group's defining feature is its assertion of male honor and dominance, and it often participates in street protests to assert its presence and beliefs.

Key Ideology: The Proud Boys emphasize nationalistic and patriarchal values. They oppose what they see as cultural imperialism, particularly from the United States' perspective. The group frequently engages in confrontations and seeks to establish itself as an assertion of masculinity and white male power.

Actions: While the Proud Boys do not have a direct military or law enforcement orientation, they often engage in street protests and have been known to confront individuals and groups deemed to be in opposition to their views. They have been involved in incidents where they have clashed with other activist groups and law enforcement.

Key Differences

Orientation: The OathKeepers focus on constitutional principles and the military, whereas the Proud Boys emphasize national identity and male honor. The OathKeepers' actions are more politically and judicially oriented, while the Proud Boys' activities are often more street-oriented and confrontational.

Support: The OathKeepers receive support from law enforcement and military figures, as well as various right-wing organizations. The Proud Boys, on the other hand, rely on public displays and street presence to garner support.

Handling of Conflict: The OathKeepers are more aligned with formal legal and governmental structures, often seeking to use the courts and other formal means to address grievances. The Proud Boys, however, frequently engage in direct conflict, whether through organized protests or confrontations with others.

Conclusion

The distinction between the OathKeepers and the Proud Boys is clear in their ideologies, actions, and the contexts in which they operate. While the OathKeepers emphasize constitutional principles and training through official channels, the Proud Boys advocate for national pride and male honor through more direct, and often confrontational, methods.

Understanding these differences is crucial for comprehending the complexities of far-right movements in the United States and their impact on society. Both groups present challenges for law enforcement and social cohesion, reflecting the broader struggles over identity and values in contemporary America.