Yale University, one of the most prestigious institutions of higher learning in the United States, has a long and complex history that is intertwined with the existence of secret societies. These organizations, also known as "societies" or "clubs," have been a part of Yale's culture for over two centuries, with some dating back to the late 18th century. The most well-known of these societies are the Skull and Bones Society, Scroll and Key, and Berzelius, among others. Despite their secretive nature, these organizations have played a significant role in shaping the lives of their members, many of whom have gone on to become influential figures in politics, business, and other fields.
History of Secret Societies at Yale
The first secret society at Yale was the Linonian Society, founded in 1753. However, it was the establishment of the Skull and Bones Society in 1832 that marked the beginning of the modern era of secret societies at Yale. The Skull and Bones Society, also known as the Brotherhood of Death, was founded by William H. Russell and Alphonso Taft, and its membership has included some of the most powerful and influential individuals in American history, including presidents, senators, and business leaders. Other notable secret societies at Yale include Scroll and Key, founded in 1842, and Berzelius, founded in 1848.
Skull and Bones Society
The Skull and Bones Society is perhaps the most infamous of all the secret societies at Yale. Its membership is highly selective, with only 15 members, known as “knights,” chosen each year from the junior class. The society’s headquarters, known as the “Tomb,” is a imposing structure located on High Street in New Haven, and its rituals and ceremonies are shrouded in secrecy. Despite its mysterious nature, the Skull and Bones Society has been the subject of much speculation and controversy over the years, with some accusing it of promoting elitism and exclusivity. Notable members of the Skull and Bones Society include George H.W. Bush, George W. Bush, and John Kerry, all of whom have played significant roles in American politics.
The Skull and Bones Society has a number of rituals and ceremonies that are unique to its culture. These include the "tapping" ceremony, in which new members are chosen, and the "initiation" ceremony, in which new members are formally inducted into the society. The society also has a number of symbols and artifacts that are steeped in tradition and significance, including the skull and crossbones emblem, which is a prominent feature of the society's logo.
| Secret Society | Year Founded | Notable Members |
|---|---|---|
| Skull and Bones Society | 1832 | George H.W. Bush, George W. Bush, John Kerry |
| Scroll and Key | 1842 | William Howard Taft, Gerald Ford |
| Berzelius | 1848 | Andrew Mellon, William F. Buckley Jr. |
Influence of Secret Societies on Members
The secret societies at Yale have had a profound influence on the lives of their members, many of whom have gone on to become influential figures in politics, business, and other fields. Membership in a secret society can provide a number of benefits, including access to a powerful network of alumni, opportunities for leadership development, and a sense of camaraderie and belonging. Many members of secret societies at Yale have also reported that their experiences in these organizations have had a lasting impact on their personal and professional lives, providing them with valuable skills, knowledge, and connections that have helped them to achieve their goals.
Notable Alumni of Secret Societies
Some of the most notable alumni of secret societies at Yale include George H.W. Bush, George W. Bush, and John Kerry, all of whom are members of the Skull and Bones Society. Other notable alumni include William Howard Taft, who was a member of Scroll and Key, and Andrew Mellon, who was a member of Berzelius. These individuals, among many others, have gone on to play significant roles in American politics, business, and other fields, and their experiences in secret societies at Yale have undoubtedly had a lasting impact on their lives and careers.
The secret societies at Yale have also been the subject of much controversy and criticism over the years, with some accusing them of promoting elitism and exclusivity. However, many of these societies have also been recognized for their philanthropic efforts, with some providing significant support to charitable causes and community organizations. For example, the Skull and Bones Society has been involved in a number of philanthropic initiatives, including the establishment of a scholarship fund for underprivileged students.
- George H.W. Bush: 41st President of the United States, member of Skull and Bones Society
- George W. Bush: 43rd President of the United States, member of Skull and Bones Society
- John Kerry: Senator and Secretary of State, member of Skull and Bones Society
- William Howard Taft: 27th President of the United States, member of Scroll and Key
- Andrew Mellon: Financier and politician, member of Berzelius
What is the purpose of secret societies at Yale?
+The purpose of secret societies at Yale is to provide a supportive community for members, as well as opportunities for leadership development, networking, and personal growth. Many secret societies at Yale also have a strong focus on philanthropy and community service.
How do secret societies at Yale choose their members?
+Secret societies at Yale typically choose their members through a process known as “tapping,” in which current members select new members from the junior class. The selection process is usually based on a combination of factors, including academic achievement, leadership potential, and personal character.
What are some of the benefits of membership in a secret society at Yale?
+Membership in a secret society at Yale can provide a number of benefits, including access to a powerful network of alumni, opportunities for leadership development, and a sense of camaraderie and belonging. Many members of secret societies at Yale have also reported that their experiences in these organizations have had a lasting impact on their personal and professional lives.
