Always Running

by

Luis J. Rodriguez

Miguel Robles Character Analysis

A childhood friend of Luis Rodriguez, who first forms a small-time gang called Thee Impersonations, and later convinces Luis to join The Tribe, a larger gang that eventually merges with the Lomas. Miguel is a tragic figure because, more than a year after he pledges to give up the gang life, he’s shot and killed by police officers. Miguel’s death inspires Luis to become more politically active and speak out against police brutality.
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Miguel Robles Character Timeline in Always Running

The timeline below shows where the character Miguel Robles appears in Always Running. The colored dots and icons indicate which themes are associated with that appearance.
Chapter 2
Race, Racism, and Class Theme Icon
...his friends create a group called “Thee Impersonations” (“the” is spelled the old English way). Miguel Robles, the president, tells the members to pledge to protect one another. (full context)
Gangs and Crime Theme Icon
Machismo Theme Icon
It is Miguel Robles who first introduces Luis to The Tribe. At a school dance, Miguel greets Luis... (full context)
Gangs and Crime Theme Icon
Machismo Theme Icon
Luis tells Miguel that he wants to join The Tribe. Miguel talks with Joaquín Lopez, an important Tribe... (full context)
Chapter 8
Politics, Resistance, and Activism Theme Icon
One night, police officers arrest Miguel Robles, Luis’s old friend. This is strange, because Miguel has been “going straight” for a... (full context)
Race, Racism, and Class Theme Icon
Politics, Resistance, and Activism Theme Icon
Deputy Coates, the officer who shot Miguel Robles, is charged with murder. This would be the first time an officer is sent... (full context)
Chapter 10
Politics, Resistance, and Activism Theme Icon
A lot happens after Luis leaves San Pedro. The police officers who killed Miguel Robles are acquitted—just like “virtually every deputy ever accused of maiming or killing an unarmed... (full context)