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The Patriots

Not to be confused with the New England Patriots (though we wouldn't be shocked if they are somehow involved), this rascally organization has been secretly controlling America since the 1970s. It began as a group known as "The Philosophers" in the early 1900s, comprised of American, Russian, and Chinese leaders referred to as "The Wisemen's Commission."

The Philosophers were largely (and, again, secretly) responsible for all of the political goings-on in their respective countries, operating under the justification that they were making the world a better place. The group amassed one hundred billion dollars (known as "The Philosopher's Legacy") to fund its continued efforts, and the money was placed into various bank accounts around the world following World War II. A major portion of the Philosopher's Legacy was stolen by the group's American branch in the 1960s, which soon thereafter changed its name to The Patriots. (Also referred to in MGS2 as the "La-Li-Lu-Le-Lo.")

The Patriots seek total control over America, choosing its presidents and rigging its elections. Liquid Ocelot is an agent of The Patriots, and various other Metal Gear characters have been their targets or pawns at one point or another. It should be noted that The Patriots have never acted directly, instead choosing to use agents such as Ocelot to handle their dirty work. In fact, it is revealed in MGS2 that the members of The Patriots are all presumed dead, but only after players interact with two Artificial Intelligence programs - GW and JFK - which claim to represent them. Alive, dead, or completely digital, The Patriots are Solid Snake's overarching nemesis and prime target in MGS4.

11/06/08