Introduction

The fascination with secret societies runs deep, with many individuals and groups maintaining a certain allure. Notable individuals like George W. Bush, William Howard Taft, and John Kerry have been associated with these societies, while others like Garry Trudeau have satirized some of these groups in his works. This article explores the connections between such secret societies and prominent public figures, as well as the nature of these groups themselves.

Skull and Bones: The Yale Society

One of the most famous secret societies, Skull and Bones, has a long and intriguing history. Renowned for its exclusive membership and mystery, this society has been linked to various political and business leaders. Members like George H.W. Bush, who served as both a member and President, have upheld the society's legacy. In fact, in 2004, both George W. Bush and John Kerry, another Skull and Bones member, were running for the presidency, representing a unique moment in political history.

A satirical take on the society can be found in the comic strip Doonesbury, where Garry Trudeau satirizes the group in various strips. In one instance, a character named Dubya Bush (in reference to George W. Bush) inquires about the society's secretive practices, only to be reminded by a Bonesman about the initiation ritual involving the kissing of a corpse. This not only adds a layer of intrigue to the group but also highlights the potential memory-altering effect of such rituals on newly initiated members.

William Howard Taft: A former U.S. President and Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, Taft was also a member of Skull and Bones, underscoring the society's historical significance. John Kerry: A former U.S. senator and presidential candidate, Kerry's involvement with the society adds another layer of political intrigue to the society's membership.

Freemasons: Not Truly Secret

In contrast to Skull and Bones, the Freemasons, while historically associated with secrecy, are far from being a secret society in contemporary times. Known for their emphasis on brotherhood, charity, and moral and intellectual development, the Freemasons have public halls in virtually every major city and smaller areas. These institutions often have strong connections with labor unions, with many union halls housing Freemasons whose presence can be discovered by asking a few locals.

The Freemasons' rituals and meetings often take place in existing lodge spaces like Elks clubs or churches, rather than in dedicated halls. This flexibility allows for a certain degree of openness, making the Freemasons more accessible to individuals interested in exploring their history and traditions.

Membership in Freemasonry requires an application process, and there is a heavy emphasis on the spiritual and moral aspects of the society. The annual dues for membership vary but are generally around 200 dollars.

The Illuminati: A Mythological Figure

While the idea of the Illuminati as a powerful, clandestine organization has garnered a lot of attention over the years, historical research has largely debunked the myth of its modern-day existence. Friedrich Naumann and Adam Weishaupt founded the original Illuminati in Bavaria in 1776, but the group was disbanded in 1809 due to political pressure.

Modern theories that the Illuminati continues to operate are often based on conspiracy theories rather than factual evidence. While it is possible that certain individuals or groups may have tried to assume the mantle of the Illuminati for modern conspiracies, the historical Illuminati has not existed for centuries, and our current technological limitations make time travel into the past impossible.

Conclusion

The connection between secret societies and high-profile individuals remains a topic of fascination, with societies like Skull and Bones, Freemasons, and the Illuminati each having their own unique roles and memberships. From the exclusive and mysterious Skull and Bones to the more accessible Freemasons, these groups continue to capture the public's imagination, and their involvement in significant historical and political events adds an extra layer of intrigue to their stories.