Lasting Legacy of Charles Manson: A Look at the Influence on History

How the contributions of Charles Manson continue to shape the world today.

Charles Manson was an American cult leader and criminal who led the Manson Family in the late 1960s. His followers committed a series of murders in July and August 1969, most notably the murder of actress Sharon Tate. Though Manson didn't directly order the killings, he was convicted of first-degree murder and conspiracy to commit murder in 1971 due to his influence and ideology. The Manson Family's crimes remain a notorious part of American criminal history.

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Full Timeline Early Life & Education Controversies & Scandals Legacy & Impact

June 1970: Manson Cover Story in Rolling Stone

In June 1970, Rolling Stone featured Charles Manson as their cover story, further amplifying his notoriety following the Tate murders.

February 14, 2002: Manson's Will Dated

On February 14, 2002, Charles Manson allegedly created a will leaving his entire estate and body to his pen-pal Michael Channels, which was later contested after his death.

2012: CNN DNA Match

In 2012, CNN conducted a DNA test to determine if Jason Freeman and Matthew Roberts, who both claimed a relationship to Charles Manson, were related to each other. The DNA test revealed that they were not related.

January 2017: Alleged Manson Will Gives Estate to Matthew Roberts

In January 2017, Charles Manson allegedly created a will giving his estate and body to Matthew Roberts, who claimed to be another son of Manson. This will was created around the same time that Manson was hospitalized for gastrointestinal bleeding.

November 19, 2017: Charles Manson's Death

Charles Manson died on November 19, 2017. He was an American criminal, cult leader, and musician who led the Manson Family.

March 12, 2018: Freeman Wins Claim to Manson's Body

On March 12, 2018, the Kern County Superior Court in California ruled in favor of Jason Freeman regarding the possession of Charles Manson's body, settling the dispute among multiple claimants.

March 17, 2018: Manson's Funeral and Cremation

On March 17, 2018, a funeral service was held for Charles Manson, after which his remains were cremated and scattered on a California hillside by his grandson, Jason Freeman.