Debunking the spurious reputations of some, detailing the authenticity of others, The International Encyclopedia of Secret Societies and Fraternal Orders contains over 800 A-to-Z entries describing the names, natures, and purposes of secret societies throughout history and around the world. An extensive introduction gives readers a solid overview of the evolution of secret societies from their ancient roots, typologies of secret societies - how and why they specialized, why schisms and splinter groups are almost inevitable, how brotherhoods often formed around one charismatic personality, and why memberships are now declining. Further, The International Encyclopedia of Secret Societies and Fraternal Orders has a comprehensive bibliography, an index, and includes the addresses of secret societies in existence today.
On back of cover: Marked Exhibit B. At the Execution of a Commission for the examination of witnesses between Thaddeus Stevens (Plf) and Jacob Lefever (Deft) this Book was shewn to Israel Pickney, Jason[?] Hanksile [?], Avery Allyn, and by them deposed unto, at the time of their examination. Before me Henry Cotheal, Henrytana Ward, Levi H Clarke, Commissioners.
Contents
York Rite, Royal Arch, Royal Master, Select Master, Ark and Dove, Knights of Constantinople, Secret Monitor, Heroine of Jericho, Knights of Three Kings, Knights of Red Cross, Knights Templars, Knights of Malta, Knights of the Christian Mark, Gaurds of the Conclave, Knights of the Holy Sepulchre, Order of the Cross, Ineffable degrees.
