Vernon Wayne Howell, later to be known as David Koresh, did not have the greatest childhood. According to an article written by PBS, “In his late-night conversations with FBI agents during the siege, Koresh described his childhood as lonely. He said the other kids teased him and called him ‘Vernie’. He was dyslexic, a bad student, and dropped out of high school” (David Koresh | Waco - The Inside Story | FRONTLINE | PBS.). Koresh’s unstable childhood may be the reason for his wrongdoings.

    David Koresh was a thoughtless leader. Author Jon P. Howell comments: "Koresh was lacking in a single characteristic of Transformational Leadership in his apparent lack of true consideration for many of his followers" (Howell 246). Instead of surrendering to the FBI, Koresh claimed God had told him to wait, leading to the death of over 80 Branch Davidians (Department of Justice | Report to the Deputy Attorney General on the Events at Waco, Texas: The Aftermath of the April 19 Fire.). David Koresh was a determined leader. Author Jon P. Howell adds, "Koresh is an excellent example of the danger that accompanies charismatic leaders who are self-oriented and narcissistic" (Howell 247). David Koresh's stubbornness was his downfall.  

    Koresh’s unfortunate upbringing may be the reason for his corruption. As a neglected and abused child, he was on a steady course to becoming a narcissistic manipulator. Many people would inevitably suffer and die because of his decisions.