Former neo-Nazi leader and Danny's older brother. After his father's murder by a Black drug dealer, he joins a white supremacist gang led by Cameron Alexander. Following a fatal shooting, he serves three years in prison where he befriends a Black inmate, undergoes a radical ideological shift, and abandons his racist beliefs. Upon release, he desperately tries to prevent Danny from following in his footsteps, ultimately failing to save him from a school shooting. He is the central protagonist grappling with guilt and the cycle of violence.
Former romantic partner who sides with the gang against Derek.
Former gang member who turns violent when Derek leaves.
Black inmate who becomes Derek's closest prison friend and protector.
Teacher who guides Derek from hate toward accountability.
Sister who becomes a victim of Derek's violent outbursts.
Mother who rejects Derek's racism but later seeks his recovery.
Older brother and former mentor figure to his younger sibling.
Explore the full interactive character relationship map of American History X