The Shining Path is a Maoist guerrilla group that emerged in Peru in the late 1970s. Founded by Abimael Guzmán, the group aimed to establish a communist state through violent revolution. It gained notoriety for its brutal tactics, including bombings and assassinations, targeting both government officials and civilians. During the 1980s and 1990s, the Shining Path was responsible for thousands of deaths and widespread fear. The Peruvian government responded with military force, leading to the capture of Guzmán in 1992. Although the group has significantly weakened, remnants still exist and continue to engage in illegal activities in remote areas of Peru.