Foundation and History
- Establishment: The Skull and Bones society, officially known as The Order of Skull and Bones, was founded in 1832 at Yale University by William Huntington Russell and Alphonso Taft.
- Purpose: The society is known for fostering leadership and elitism among its members, often drawn from wealthy and influential families.
Key Foundational Members
- William Huntington Russell: Co-founder of Skull and Bones and influential figure in the early years of the society.
- Alphonso Taft: Co-founder and prominent legal figure, father of President William Howard Taft.
Prominent Members of Skull and Bones
- Prescott Bush: U.S. Senator and grandfather of President George H.W. Bush and great-grandfather of President George W. Bush.
- George H.W. Bush: 41st President of the United States, and his son George W. Bush: 43rd President of the United States.
- John Kerry: Former U.S. Secretary of State and Democratic presidential nominee.
- William Howard Taft: 27th President of the United States.
Tenets and Symbolism
- Tenets: Skull and Bones emphasizes loyalty, secrecy, and the promotion of its members into positions of power.
- Symbolism: The society’s rituals and symbols include a skull with crossed bones, indicating mortality and the secrecy of their proceedings. Oftentimes, the Skull and Bones society is associated with Death or the Bringer of Death. Additionally, its designated number is “322”, which to some, may also indicate further beliefs in Gematria/Mysticism/Numerology.
Requirements and Selection
- Membership: Invitation-only, typically extended to Yale seniors based on family background, wealth, and potential for future success in politics, business, or other influential fields.
Notable Members of Skull and Bones
Politicians and Government Officials
- George H.W. Bush: 41st President of the United States
- George W. Bush: 43rd President of the United States
- John Kerry: Former U.S. Secretary of State and Democratic presidential nominee
- William Howard Taft: 27th President of the United States
- Prescott Bush: U.S. Senator and grandfather of George H.W. Bush
Business Leaders and Influential Figures
- Averell Harriman: Diplomat and businessman
- Henry Luce: Founder of Time Magazine
- Henry Stimson: Secretary of War under Presidents William Howard Taft, Franklin D. Roosevelt, and Harry S. Truman
Academics and Intellectuals
- Frederick E. Weyerhaeuser: Timber magnate and philanthropist
- McGeorge Bundy: National Security Advisor to Presidents John F. Kennedy and Lyndon B. Johnson
Others
- William F. Buckley Jr.: Conservative commentator and founder of the National Review
- Potter Stewart: Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States
Conspiracies and Controversies
- Secrecy: Skull and Bones is notorious for its secrecy, leading to speculation about its activities and influence over global affairs.
- Blackmail and Influence: Conspiracy theories suggest that members engage in blackmail and use their influence to manipulate political and economic outcomes.
- Black Magick Rituals: Allegations link Skull and Bones to occult practices and rituals.
Other Secret Societies and Universities
- Illuminati: Allegedly linked to influential figures worldwide, often associated with conspiracy theories about global domination.
- Freemasons: Known for their rituals, symbols, and charitable work, attracting members from various professions and backgrounds.
References and Sources
- Skull and Bones – Yale University
- Secret Societies and Their Influence – History.com
- Conspiracy Theories Surrounding Skull and Bones – Smithsonian Magazine
Skull and Bones remains a symbol of privilege and power in American society, with its secretive rituals and influential members shaping historical and modern narratives. Understanding its foundation, rituals, and alleged conspiracies provides insight into its enduring mystique and influence over generations.