Manson believed the Beatles' track "Helter Skelter" contained coded prophecies about an apocalyptic racial conflict that his cult would eventually survive and rule.

Producer Terry Melcher previously rented the house and had rejected Manson's music. The cult attacked the home even though Melcher had already moved away.

Manson carved the mark first to symbolize that he had "X'd" himself out of the establishment. His devoted followers quickly copied the scar to show solidarity.

Fromme wanted to draw attention to corporate pollution and the logging of California redwoods. She failed to shoot Ford because there was no round in her gun's chamber.