Who doesn’t love a good mystery? Secret societies have been the stuff of legends and conspiracy theories for ages, but beyond the Freemasons and the Illuminati, there’s a whole world of lesser-known groups wielding surprising influence. Ever wondered who else is pulling the strings from the shadows?
1. The Skull and Bones
Founded in 1832 at Yale University, Skull and Bones is famous for its high-profile members, including several U.S. Presidents. The society is known for its secrecy, powerful connections, and rumors of bizarre rituals.
2. The Bilderberg Meeting
An annual private conference of 120-150 of the world’s most influential figures from finance, academia, and the media, the Bilderberg Group is said to shape global policies and economics, all behind closed doors.
3. The Bohemian Club
Since 1872, the Bohemian Club has gathered artists, musicians, and political leaders for two weeks each summer in a secluded forest in California. Members, including former U.S. Presidents, enjoy arts, drama, and an infamous ceremony called the “Cremation of Care.”
4. The Order of the Golden Dawn
This organization, active in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, was devoted to the study and practice of the occult, metaphysics, and paranormal activities. It attracted literary figures such as W.B. Yeats and Aleister Crowley.
5. The Knights of Columbus
Established in 1882, this Catholic men’s organization not only promotes charity and brotherhood but also wields considerable influence over Catholic education policies and other community initiatives.
6. The Rosicrucians
Claiming roots back to medieval Germany, the Rosicrucians are a mystical philosophical secret society, said to study the occult sciences and alchemy. Their teachings have influenced both science and the arts over the centuries.
7. The Sons of Liberty
This group was not just a pivotal force during the American Revolution, advocating for the colonies’ freedom from British rule, but also a prime example of how secret societies can influence political change.
8. The Thule Society
Linked to the early Nazi Party, the Thule Society was steeped in racist and occult beliefs. It played a crucial role in the political upheaval post-World War I Germany.
9. The Hashshashin
Also known as the Assassins, this order of Nizari Ismailis played a significant role in medieval Middle Eastern politics via targeted assassinations. Their mystical practices and secretive behaviors have fed many modern myths and stories.
10. The Society of the Cincinnati
Founded in 1783, this hereditary society includes descendants of officers from the Continental Army and their French counterparts who served in the American Revolution. It focuses on promoting historical memory and national ideals.
11. The Carbonari
This Italian secret society was influential in the early 19th century, particularly in the struggle for Italian unification. They were known for their revolutionary and anti-clerical beliefs.
12. The Seven Society
Exclusive to the University of Virginia, members of this secret society are unknown until their death. The society donates generously to the university, emphasizing scholarship and honor among students.
13. The Fenian Brotherhood
An Irish republican organization founded in the U.S. in 1858, the Fenians aimed to establish an independent Ireland. They were known for staging raids into Canada during the late 1860s.
14. The Elders of Zion
This mythical secret society was the subject of a fabricated text purporting to describe a Jewish plan for global domination. The hoax has been used to justify anti-Semitic views and actions throughout history.
15. The Black Hand
This secret military society in Serbia was involved in the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand, an event that helped ignite World War I. They promoted Serbian nationalism and expansion.
16. The Priory of Sion
A mystical and controversial group, the Priory of Sion was popularized by Dan Brown’s “The Da Vinci Code.” Although widely regarded as a hoax, it sparked interest in alternative religious histories.
17. The Vril Society
Allegedly associated with Nazi Germany, the Vril Society was said to have sought to harness an all-powerful, occult energy source called “Vril.” Their existence and influence, however, remain subjects of debate.
18. The Hellfire Club
This 18th-century British club was known for debauchery and religious mockery. Despite its notoriety for vice and immorality, it included several prominent figures, including, supposedly, Benjamin Franklin.
Behind the Curtain
Just scratched the surface, haven’t we? These societies might be operating in the shadows, but their impacts are felt across history and likely continue today. Whether you’re a history buff or just love a good conspiracy, delving into the stories of these secret societies offers a tantalizing glimpse into a world that’s usually kept hidden from plain sight. Who knows what secrets are yet to be uncovered?
The post 18 Secret Societies with Surprising Influence – Do You Know Them? first appeared on Mama Say What?!
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For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.
