Freemasonry is the world’s most famous secret society. Its secrecy, indeed, made it into one of history’s most contagious ideas—and thus its history offers a striking lesson in the power of mystery.

Search Encyclopaedia Britannica for the word Freemasons and an unusual though not entirely unexpected result pops up: the entry for scapegoats. The secretive organization that once counted George ...

The Freemasons were (and still are) a mysterious organization. Like most long-standing fraternal societies, camaraderie and social standing is built into the heart of their community. Historically, a ...

Every week, The Friendship Files features a conversation between The Atlantic’s Julie Beck and two or more friends, exploring the history and significance of their relationship. This week she talks ...

Freemasons have long wielded the qualities most irresistible to thriller writers and conspiracy theorists — secrecy, politics, power and celebrity. Among their members are Founding Fathers, presidents ...

Freemasons have long wielded the qualities most irresistible to thriller writers and conspiracy theorists — secrecy, politics, power and celebrity. Among their members are founding fathers, presidents ...

Freemasons once counted Founding Fathers, ex-presidents and titans of industry among their members. But for many, the allure is gone from the once... Freemasons have long wielded the qualities most ...

Freemasons originated with the stonemasons when cathedrals were being built [PA Media] Officers in the Metropolitan Police must tell bosses if they are a member - or have ever been a member - of the ...

As one of the world's most famous secret societies, the Freemasons have built something of a reputation for keeping the inner workings of their organization under wraps. In the wake of the coronavirus ...

Officers in the Metropolitan Police must tell bosses if they are a member - or have ever been a member - of the Freemasons, the force has announced. The group has been added to the Met's declarable ...