The 13 Most Mysterious Secret Societies in the United States: Who is Really Controlling This Country?
Throughout American history, secret societies and mysterious organizations have been the focus of countless speculations and conspiracy theories. Many people believe that these organizations are secretly controlling the country, influencing its political, economic, and cultural direction. Although most of these theories lack factual basis, some secret societies do exist in reality and have gathered highly influential individuals. This article will take you through the 13 most famous mysterious societies in the United States and attempt to analyze their actual influence.
1. Freemasons
The Freemasons are one of the oldest and most well-known secret societies in the world, including in the United States.
Data from the Grand Lodge of the United States shows that there are approximately 1 million Freemasons in the U.S., divided into over 15,000 lodges.
Historians' research indicates that 14 U.S. presidents were Freemasons, including George Washington, Theodore Roosevelt, and Gerald Ford.
Interestingly, despite being known as a "secret society," the Freemasons often actively participate in public charity activities. According to the Freemasons' organization, they invest more than $2 million daily in various charitable causes.
2. Skull and Bones
"Skull and Bones" is one of the most famous secret student societies, founded at Yale University in 1832.
Research data shows that the society only admits 15 new members each year, and since its establishment, it has had approximately 3,000 members.
An analysis of the biographies of the society's notable members found that they include three U.S. presidents (William Taft, George H.W. Bush, and George W. Bush), as well as numerous senators, Supreme Court justices, and executives of major corporations.
Notably, despite its secretive nature, "Skull and Bones" has become the subject of many documentaries and books, which has further increased public interest in it.
3. Bohemian Club
The Bohemian Club was founded in San Francisco in 1872 and is known for its annual gatherings in the "Bohemian Grove" in California.
Research data shows that the club has about 2,700 members, including many influential politicians, businessmen, and cultural figures.
An analysis of the list of participants in the annual gatherings shows that at least seven U.S. presidents have attended, including Richard Nixon and Ronald Reagan.
Interestingly, although the club's members are mostly elites, its annual gathering is known for dramatic performances and an informal atmosphere, which often becomes a topic of media speculation.
4. Trilateral Commission
The Trilateral Commission was established in 1973, bringing together outstanding individuals from North America, Europe, and Asia.
Data from the commission's official website shows that it has approximately 400 members, including former and current politicians, businesspeople, and scholars.
Political scientists' research indicates that the ideas proposed by the Trilateral Commission often appear in international political decisions and economic policies.
Notably, despite being relatively open (it publishes activity reports), the commission is often involved in conspiracy theories related to a "global government."
5. Rosicrucian Order
The Rosicrucian Order was founded in the early 20th century and claims to be a philosophical and esoteric society.
Data from the organization itself shows that it has about 250,000 members worldwide, with a significant number in the United States.
An analysis of the publications of the Rosicrucian Order found that its teachings combine ancient mysticism, alchemy, and modern scientific elements, attracting many people interested in esotericism.
Interestingly, despite being seen as a "secret society," the Rosicrucian Order holds public lectures and publishes books, which can be accessed by the general public.
6. Bilderberg Group
The Bilderberg Group is not purely an American organization but includes many influential Americans and is often considered one of the most influential secret societies.
Research data shows that the group's annual meeting has about 130 participants, mostly political, economic, and media elites from North America and Europe.
An analysis of the list of attendees found that many who later became president or prime minister had attended Bilderberg Group meetings before taking office, which has led to speculation about its influence on global politics.
Notably, although the discussion topics of the meetings are kept confidential, the group has been publishing attendee lists and discussion topics since 2010, but this has not reduced the conspiracy theories surrounding it.
7. Ordo Templi Orientis (O.T.O.)
The Ordo Templi Orientis (O.T.O.) is a mystical society founded in the early 20th century, widely known for Aleister Crowley.
Data from the organization itself shows that it has thousands of members in the U.S., although the exact number is not publicly disclosed.
Religious scholars' research indicates that the teachings of the Ordo Templi Orientis have had a significant impact on modern esotericism and the development of the "New Age Movement."
Interestingly, despite its emphasis on mysticism, the Ordo Templi Orientis is registered as a religious organization in the U.S. and enjoys corresponding rights.
8. Council on Foreign Relations (CFR)
The Council on Foreign Relations was founded in 1921 and is often considered one of the most influential organizations in the field of U.S. foreign policy.
Data from the association itself shows that it has approximately 5,000 members, including many former and current politicians, diplomats, and businessmen.
An analysis of the publications of the Council on Foreign Relations found that its ideas and recommendations often appear in official U.S. foreign policy.
Notably, despite its great influence, the Council on Foreign Relations is not a secret organization and regularly releases activity reports.
9. Cincinnati Society
The Cincinnati Society was founded by Continental Army officers in 1783 and is one of the oldest hereditary societies in the United States.
Data from the society itself shows that it has approximately 3,500 members, all descendants of officers of the Continental Army during the American Revolution.
Historians' research indicates that in the early days of the United States, the Cincinnati Society caused concerns because it was seen as a "potential aristocratic organization," which contradicted the democratic ideals of the new republic.
Interestingly, despite its members being descendants of elites, the Cincinnati Society's main activities are concentrated on historical memory protection and charity work, rather than politics.
10. Pilgrim Society
The Pilgrim Society was founded in 1902, bringing together outstanding individuals from the U.S. and Britain to strengthen the Anglo-American relationship.
Research data shows that the society has approximately 1,000 members, including several former British prime ministers and high-ranking U.S. officials.
An analysis of the society's activities found that it played an important role in consolidating the "special relationship" between Britain and the U.S. throughout the 20th century.
Notably, despite its members being elites, the Pilgrim Society is not entirely closed and regularly holds public events.
11. Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR)
The Daughters of the American Revolution was founded in 1890 and is one of the largest women's patriotic organizations in the U.S.
Data from the organization itself shows that it has approximately 185,000 members, divided into over 3,000 branches across the country.
Sociologists' research indicates that the Daughters of the American Revolution plays an important role in cultivating patriotism among the American people and preserving historical memory.
Interestingly, despite its conservative image, the Daughters of the American Revolution has recently been promoting inclusiveness and diversity within its membership.
12. Sigma Phi Fraternity
The Sigma Phi Fraternity was founded in 1827 and is one of the oldest secret student societies in the U.S.
Research data shows that the fraternity currently has approximately 60,000 members and has branches in many elite universities.
An analysis of the biographies of the fraternity's notable members found that they include several U.S. presidents, such as James Garfield and William McKinley.
Notably, despite its secretive nature, the Sigma Phi Fraternity is known for its charitable activities and support for educational initiatives.
13. Oriental Star
The Oriental Star was founded in 1850 and is the largest Masonic-related organization in the world that accepts women.
Data from the organization itself shows that it has approximately 500,000 members in the U.S. and other countries.
Sociologists' research indicates that the Oriental Star has played an important role in promoting women's rights and conducting charitable work in the U.S.
Interestingly, despite its connection with the Freemasons, the Oriental Star is open to women of all religions and does not require applicants to be Freemasons.
Secret societies and mysterious organizations' influence on American politics and society remain a focal point of controversy and speculation.
Sociological survey data shows that about 30% of Americans believe there exists a powerful secret organization that controls the government.
Political scientists' research indicates that many influential individuals are indeed affiliated with various elite organizations, but their actual influence on decision-making is often exaggerated.
Interestingly, public interest in secret societies often increases during periods of economic or political instability. For example, after the 2008 financial crisis, search volume related to secret societies increased by 200%.
Original: https://www.toutiao.com/article/7575465033472229915/
Disclaimer: This article represents the views of the author. Please express your opinion by clicking the [Up/Down] buttons below.