Antifa is a left-wing, anti-fascist and anti-racist political movement primarily in the United States, consisting of decentralized, autonomous groups. Its activists oppose far-right extremists, such as neo-Nazis and white supremacists, using various tactics including nonviolent direct action, protests, and sometimes physical confrontation. The movement is composed mostly of anarchists, communists, and socialists who hold anti-authoritarian, anti-capitalist, and anti-state views. Antifa is not a single organized group but rather a loosely affiliated collection of activists united against fascism and racism. The term "antifa" comes from a shortened form of the German "antifaschistisch" meaning anti-fascist, and the movement draws inspiration from historical anti-fascist groups in Europe. While known for opposing hate groups, the movement has also been controversial due to some activists' use of violence and property damage in their actions.