What are Norteño?

Norteños are indeed recognized as a northern California gang that pays homage to Nuestra Familia, which is a larger prison gang with roots in the California correctional system. This connection is significant, as the Norteños often identify with the color red and utilize the number 14, which signifies the letter 'N' in the alphabet, representing their allegiance to Nuestra Familia. The gang's activities primarily revolve around controlling territories, engaging in various criminal enterprises, and maintaining loyalty among its members. This cultural and historical context emphasizes the social and territorial aspects characteristic of Norteño gangs in California.

In contrast, the other options misrepresent the essence of Norteños. While some gangs operate in southern California, the specific identification with Nuestra Familia highlights the unique background of Norteños in the northern part of the state. The other descriptions fail to capture the specific nature of their affiliations and do not accurately define the Norteños' identity or their cultural significance within the larger gang landscape.