How Many Branch Davidians Were There?
The Branch Davidians, a religious sect founded by David Koresh in the 1980s, have been a subject of intrigue and controversy. One of the most infamous events involving the Branch Davidians was the Waco Siege in 1993, where a stand-off between the sect and the FBI resulted in the deaths of many members. But how many Branch Davidians were there at the time of this tragic event?
The exact number of Branch Davidians fluctuated over the years, but at the height of their numbers, it is estimated that there were around 100-150 members living at the sect’s compound in Waco, Texas. However, the number of Branch Davidians involved in the Waco Siege was significantly lower. According to the FBI, there were approximately 76 Branch Davidians present during the siege, including women, children, and Koresh himself.
The Waco Siege began on February 28, 1993, when the FBI and the Texas Department of Public Safety attempted to serve a search warrant on the Branch Davidian compound. The sect had been under investigation for illegal weapons possession and child abuse. The initial attempt to serve the warrant resulted in a violent confrontation, and the FBI was forced to retreat.
The siege lasted for 51 days, with the Branch Davidians holding out against the FBI’s siege tactics. During this time, the FBI used tear gas and tanks to try to force the sect members out of the compound. However, the gas was ineffective due to the airtight structure of the buildings, and the sect members became increasingly paranoid and isolated.
On April 19, 1993, the FBI launched a final assault on the compound. The attack resulted in the deaths of 76 Branch Davidians, including Koresh, and 4 agents from the FBI. The aftermath of the Waco Siege sparked a national debate about the use of force by law enforcement and the rights of religious groups in the United States.
In conclusion, while the Branch Davidian sect had a fluctuating number of members over the years, approximately 76 were present during the Waco Siege. The tragic event has left a lasting impact on the perception of religious freedom and the role of law enforcement in the United States.
