The Yale University Skull and Bones Society, also known as The Order of Skull and Bones, is a secret society founded in 1832 at Yale University in New Haven, Connecticut. The society is known for its mysterious and exclusive nature, with membership limited to a select few. The Skull and Bones Society is one of the most well-known and influential secret societies in the United States, with a long history of prominent members who have gone on to become leaders in politics, business, and other fields.
History and Origins
The Skull and Bones Society was founded by William H. Russell and Alphonso Taft, two students at Yale University who were inspired by German secret societies. The society’s original purpose was to promote friendship, unity, and intellectual discussion among its members. The first meeting of the society took place in 1832, and the group quickly gained popularity among Yale students. Over time, the society became known for its mysterious rituals and symbols, including the skull and crossbones logo that has become synonymous with the group.
Membership and Selection Process
Membership in the Skull and Bones Society is highly exclusive, with only a select few chosen each year to join the group. The selection process is secretive, but it is known that potential members are typically chosen during their junior year at Yale. Members are chosen based on their academic achievement, leadership potential, and personal character. Once chosen, members are initiated into the society through a secret ritual that is said to involve a series of challenges and tests. The society’s membership has included some of the most influential people in American history, including presidents, senators, and business leaders.
The Skull and Bones Society has a total of 15 members per year, known as the "class." Each class has its own unique name and motto, and members are assigned a specific nickname or "nom de guerre." Members are also assigned a specific role within the society, such as the "Uncle" or the "Bishop." The society's internal structure is based on a hierarchical system, with senior members holding positions of authority and influence.
| Year | Class Name | Motto |
|---|---|---|
| 1832 | First Class | "Bones are the guardians of the tomb" |
| 1856 | The Thirteen | "Order out of Chaos" |
| 1872 | The Nineteen | "Lux et Veritas" |
Notable Members
The Skull and Bones Society has a long list of notable members, including three U.S. presidents: George H.W. Bush, George W. Bush, and William Howard Taft. Other notable members include senators, congressmen, and business leaders, such as John Kerry, George P. Bush, and Harold Stanley. The society’s members have also included numerous authors, artists, and intellectuals, such as William F. Buckley Jr. and McGeorge Bundy.
Influence and Legacy
The Skull and Bones Society has had a significant influence on American politics and society, with many of its members going on to hold positions of power and influence. The society’s network of alumni is said to be one of the most powerful and exclusive in the world, with members often helping to advance each other’s careers and interests. The society’s legacy is also evident in its symbolism and rituals, which have been adopted by other secret societies and organizations around the world.
The Skull and Bones Society has also been the subject of numerous books, articles, and films, including the best-selling novel "The Skulls" by Douglas Stevenson. The society's mysterious and exclusive nature has captivated the public imagination, with many people fascinated by the group's secrets and rituals. The society's actual activities and purposes remain a mystery, but its influence and legacy are undeniable.
What is the purpose of the Skull and Bones Society?
+The purpose of the Skull and Bones Society is to promote friendship, unity, and intellectual discussion among its members. The society’s actual activities and purposes are not publicly known, but it is believed to be focused on promoting the interests and careers of its members.
Who are some notable members of the Skull and Bones Society?
+Some notable members of the Skull and Bones Society include George H.W. Bush, George W. Bush, William Howard Taft, John Kerry, and William F. Buckley Jr. The society’s members have also included numerous senators, congressmen, business leaders, authors, artists, and intellectuals.
What is the selection process for membership in the Skull and Bones Society?
+The selection process for membership in the Skull and Bones Society is secretive, but it is known that potential members are typically chosen during their junior year at Yale. Members are chosen based on their academic achievement, leadership potential, and personal character.
