For most people, belonging to a special, limited group has an irresistible appeal. Uncover the secrets of clandestine societies throughout history, from the ancient Mediterranean civilizations to such familiar associations as the Mafia and the Ku Klux Klan. Dozens of circles come under scrutiny in this revealing study: the Zoroastrians, who may have created the first significant monotheistic religion; the Rosicrucians, a brotherhood that condemned astrology, and other "occult" arts; and the Freemasons, who refuse to divulge their rituals. Precisely because of their closed nature, suspicion greeted these organizations. An examination of witch hunts vividly demonstrates tragic results of public prejudice and fear, while the Chinese Triads and Nazi occult societies reveal the dar more dangerous side of secret groups.

Almost every social system throughout history has produced its secret societies. Here is a unique study of such societies from earliest recorded times to the present, along with an analysis of their forms, rituals, and beliefs. The author has traveled extensively to gather documentation. The Charcoal Burners of Italy, the Castrators of Russia, the Old Man of the Mountains, and the Gnostics are but a few of the many described.

Ireland, helpless against misery and superstition, misled by hatred against her conquerors, the rulers of England, formed sects to fight not so much the evil, as the supposed authors of the evil. -from "Irish Societies" From the modern intrigue of conspiracy theories to the immense popularity of The Da Vinci Code, the fascination with secret societies-and their arcane knowledge and power-has never been so rampant. This monumental, encyclopedic work details the initiations and ceremonies, the codes and customs of mysterious organizations from ancient times to the modern world. First published in 1875 and completely revised and updated in 1897, this remains the definitive, authoritative guide to secret societies... and to the spiritual evolution of humanity they represent. Volume II features: .an in-depth exploration of Freemasonry, from its origins and traditions to its influence in the histories of England, Scotland, France, and Italy .political secret societies, including anarchists, Napoleonic organizations, and the Ancient Order of Hibernians .minor groups such as the Cambridge Secret Society, Phi-Beta-Kappa, and Society of the Turf. Also available from Cosimo Classics: The Secret Societies of All Ages & Countries: Vol. 1. British historian and author CHARLES WILLIAM HECKETHORN (c. 1826-1902) was born in Switzerland but emigrated to England as a child. Among his writings are a novel, a book of verse, translations of Scandinavian folklore, and the travelogues Italian Lights and Shadows, London Souvenirs, and London Memories.

From the Illuminati to the Freemasons, secret societies have been a source of fascination and intrigue for centuries. In this book, the author delves into the world of modern secret societies and sheds light on their history, beliefs, and practices. This book is a fascinating read for anyone interested in the mysteries of the secret world. This work has been selected by scholars as being culturally important, and is part of the knowledge base of civilization as we know it. This work is in the "public domain in the United States of America, and possibly other nations. Within the United States, you may freely copy and distribute this work, as no entity (individual or corporate) has a copyright on the body of the work. Scholars believe, and we concur, that this work is important enough to be preserved, reproduced, and made generally available to the public. We appreciate your support of the preservation process, and thank you for being an important part of keeping this knowledge alive and relevant.

This society, probably the most pernicious association which has ever existed in Europe, was, or is-for we have no proofs that it has ceased to exist-an association of blacklegs, thieves, extortioners, rogues and villains of every kind... -from "The Camorra" From the modern intrigue of conspiracy theories to the immense popularity of The Da Vinci Code, the fascination with secret societies-and their arcane knowledge and power-has never been so rampant. This monumental, encyclopedic work details the initiations and ceremonies, the codes and customs of mysterious organizations from ancient times to the modern world. First published in 1875 and completely revised and updated in 1897, this remains the definitive, authoritative guide to secret societies... and to the spiritual evolution of humanity they represent. Volume I explores: the Magi and the Mithraics . Egyptian priests and kings Chinese metaphysics . the Druids . Cabbalism and Gnosticism pagan rites and myths echoed in Christianity . heretics the Assassins and the Dervishes . chivalrous knights the Inquisition . Alchemy . the Mafia . the Illuminati and much more. Also available from Cosimo Classics: The Secret Societies of All Ages & Countries: Vol. 2. British historian and author CHARLES WILLIAM HECKETHORN (c. 1826-1902) was born in Switzerland but emigrated to England as a child. Among his writings are a novel, a book of verse, translations of Scandinavian folklore, and the travelogues Italian Lights and Shadows, London Souvenirs, and London Memories.