With a cast of characters ranging from Malcolm X to 50 Cent, this is the first detailed account of the movement inextricably linked with black empowerment, Islam, New York, and hip-hop. Including coverage of Brooklyn turf gangs, the Attica prison uprising, 1980s crack empires, and the stars of Five Percenter rap, this fast-paced investigation uncovers the Five Percenters' icons and heritage, and examines their growing influence in urban American youth culture.