People Magazine Investigates: Cults

Initially, the Alamo Christian Foundation once held hope for a better society for young people seeking purpose. But when Susan Alamo dies of cancer, Tony reveals his dark side and turns his anger on his followers, including taking multiple child brides.

In the late 1950s, Jim Jones founded the People's Temple to help those in need. By 1975, he was setting up a utopia called Jonestown. However, the utopia quickly turns into a hell as Jones spirals deeper into his own paranoia.

The Word of Life Church, starts as a small bible study group led by Pastor Jerry Irwin. After his death, his daughter Tiffanie gains control and makes life hell for the church followers, leading to the brutal death of a teenaged boy.

Yahweh Ben Yahweh is a respected religious leader in the 1980s, but he rules his followers with terror and violence. One survivor shares the story of this leader, whose ruthless tactics ruined hundreds of lives and left 14 dead.

Deborah and Jim Green describe themselves as generals in a holy army for God, and their harsh rule has destroyed families and lives. Survivors reveal how the Greens transformed from charismatic hippies into militant cult leaders.

The followers of cult leader Dwight York come from all walks of life. Ruby joins the Nuwaubian Nation when looking for answers to life's big questions while Niki is brought in as a child. Both become disillusioned as they learn the truth about York.