AI-Created: The Freemasons
Who are the Freemasons?
The Freemasons are members of a fraternal organization that traces its origins to the local guilds of stonemasons that, from the end of the 14th century, regulated the qualifications of stonemasons and their interaction with authorities. Today, the vast majority of Freemasons are not masters of stonemasonry, but rather individuals from various backgrounds who share a set of values and principles.
History of Freemasonry
Freemasonry evolved from the guilds of stonemasons and cathedral builders of the Middle Ages. With the decline of cathedral building, some guilds transformed into fraternal organizations, attracting individuals from various professions and social classes. The organization grew popular in cities, gathering political, commercial, and intellectual elites, and eventually gained aristocratic and royal patronage. The widely accepted view among Masonic scholars is that Freemasonry originates from the medieval stonemasons who built castles and cathedrals.
Notable Freemasons
Freemasonry has a rich history, with many notable members involved in shaping the world. In the United States, for example, several Founding Fathers, including John Hancock, John Sullivan, and Lafayette, were Freemasons. Additionally, Prince Hall, a former slave, established the first African American Masonic lodge in the United States.
Information is missing on the specific connection between Freemasonry and Abraham or Nimrod of Babel, as the provided contexts do not provide sufficient information on this topic.
Early Origins (1646)
The origins of Freemasonry are unclear, although early Freemasons were influenced by the legends, imagery, and customs of medieval stonemasons.
Evolution from Guilds (Middle Ages)
Freemasonry evolved from the guilds of stonemasons and cathedral builders of the Middle Ages. With the decline of cathedral building, some guilds transitioned into fraternal organizations.
Formation of Modern Freemasonry (1717)
On 24 June 1717, four London Lodges came together at the Goose and Gridiron Tavern in St Paul's Churchyard, declaring themselves a unified organization.
Growth and Development (18th century)
With aristocratic and later royal patronage, Freemasonry evolved into the preeminent fraternal organization of the 18th century. The earliest records of Freemasonry date back to this period.
Expansion and Maturation (1800s-1900s)
During the 1800s and early 1900s, Freemasonry grew dramatically, filling a social void left by the lack of government-provided social services.
Modern Freemasonry
Today, Freemasonry is a fraternal organization with a rich history and a strong sense of brotherhood, continuing to evolve and adapt to the needs of its members.
Note:
The provided contexts do not offer a comprehensive timeline of modern Freemasonry beyond the early 20th century.
Here is a list of famous Freemasons and their occupations:
Politicians
George Washington (1st President of the United States)
Benjamin Franklin (Statesman and Founding Father)
Winston Churchill (Former Prime Minister of the United Kingdom)
Franklin D. Roosevelt (32nd President of the United States)
Andrew Jackson (7th President of the United States)
Salvador Allende (Former President of Chile)
Athletes
"Sugar Ray" Robinson (Boxer)
Jack Dempsey (Boxer)
John Elway (American Football Player)
Scottie Pippen (Basketball Player)
Artists and Entertainers
Mark Twain (Author)
Jules Verne (Author)
Clint Eastwood (Actor)
Danny Glover (Actor)
Paul McCartney (Musician)
Nat King Cole (Musician)
Duke Ellington (Musician)
Military and Explorers
Sergeant Johnson Beharry (British Army Soldier)
Sir Ernest Shackleton (Explorer)
Business and Inventors
John Jacob Astor (Businessman)
Samuel Colt (Inventor and Industrialist)
Scientists
Sir Alexander Fleming (Biologist and Pharmacologist)
Note:
This is not an exhaustive list, and there may be other famous Freemasons not included here.
Core Beliefs and Principles of Freemasonry
The core beliefs and principles of Freemasonry are centered around morality, charity, personal responsibility, and obedience to the law of the land. The principles of personal decency and personal responsibility are also emphasized, with the aim of inspiring charity and good deeds.
Core Values
The core values of Freemasonry are Brotherly Love, Relief, and Truth. These values are fundamental to the organization and guide the behavior of its members.
Belief in a Deity
Freemasonry requires its members to believe in a deity, although the specific deity is not relevant. This belief is a fundamental principle of the organization.
The Golden Rule
Freemasons believe in the Golden Rule, which is a universal principle of treating others with kindness and respect. This principle is shared by many world religions and is a unifying element among Freemasons.
Tenets
The tenets of Freemasonry are the principles, beliefs, or doctrines held to be true by its members. These tenets are centered around the core values and principles mentioned above.
In summary, the core beliefs and principles of Freemasonry are centered around morality, charity, personal responsibility, brotherly love, relief, truth, and a belief in a deity, with the Golden Rule serving as a guiding principle.
Hand Signs and Body Movements
Freemasons use specific hand signs and body movements, known as "due guards" and "signs," to identify themselves to other Masons and to perform rituals. These signs and movements are taught to members during their degree work and are used to signify their membership and level of proficiency.
Codes
Freemasons use a system of codes and ciphers to convey secret messages and to identify one another. These codes are often based on Masonic symbolism and are used to maintain the secrecy of the organization.
Bonding Methods
Freemasons use various bonding methods, including rituals, oaths, and fraternal bonds, to create a sense of brotherhood and unity among members. These methods are designed to foster trust, loyalty, and camaraderie among Masons.
Recognition Methods
Freemasons use specific methods to recognize one another, including the use of secret handshakes, passwords, and phrases. These methods are used to identify fellow Masons and to gain admission to Masonic meetings and events.
Information is missing on the specific details of the hand signs, body movements, codes, and bonding methods used by Freemasons, as this information is considered secret and is only available to initiated members.
Freemasons in Positions of Power and Influence
Freemasonry, a fraternal organization with roots in stonemasons' guilds, has had members who have held significant positions of power and influence in global politics, finance, and society. While the organization's secrecy has led to speculation and conspiracy theories, it is essential to separate fact from fiction.
Politics
Several notable politicians have been Freemasons, including:
Winston Churchill, former Prime Minister of the United Kingdom
George Washington, first President of the United States
Benjamin Franklin, one of the Founding Fathers of the United States
Simón Bolívar, Venezuelan leader who played a key role in Latin American independence
Finance
Freemasons have also held influential positions in finance, such as:
J.P. Morgan, American financier and banker
John D. Rockefeller, American businessman and philanthropist
Society
In addition, Freemasons have made significant contributions to society through their involvement in various fields, including:
Science:
Isaac Newton, English physicist and mathematician
Arts:
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Austrian composer
It is essential to note that while these individuals were Freemasons, their achievements and influence cannot be solely attributed to their membership in the organization. Freemasonry's emphasis on personal development, charity, and community service has likely contributed to the success of its members in various fields.
Information is missing on the current number of Freemasons holding positions of power and influence, as well as the specific lodges they are affiliated with.
AI-Created: The Freemasons
This is a sample created by and drawing from provided contexts! Ninja Tech AI
