What is the primary characteristic of the Texas Syndicate?

The primary characteristic of the Texas Syndicate is to protect Texan inmates in California. This gang emerged in the 1970s primarily as a response to the harsh conditions that Texas inmates faced in California prisons. Members of the Texas Syndicate are typically linked by their common geographical background and focus on their solidarity to protect each other in the prison environment, which is crucial for their survival and well-being. This protective aspect is paramount and has historically defined the gang's purpose and operations, emphasizing loyalty and group cohesion among its members who are far from their home state.

The other options, while they may relate to gang activities generally, do not encapsulate the defining characteristic of the Texas Syndicate. For example, promoting racial supremacy or conducting drug trafficking may apply to various gangs but do not reflect the specific focus of the Texas Syndicate on protecting fellow Texan inmates. Similarly, while recruiting new members can be a tactic employed by many gangs, it is not the central aspect of the Texas Syndicate's identity. Understanding this protective mission provides insight into the dynamics of prison culture, especially relating to regional gangs and their networks.