Anti-Masonry
Origins of Anti-Masonry
Anti-Masonry, also known as Anti-Freemasonry, is a political and religious movement that emerged during the late 17th century, following the establishment of the first Freemason lodges in England. The movement is characterized by its opposition to Freemasonry, and its proponents often attribute a variety of societal ills to the influence of Freemasonry. The origins of Anti-Masonry can be traced back to various religious and political conflicts that arose in Europe during the 17th and 18th centuries.
Religious Opposition
Religious opposition to Freemasonry is perhaps the most long-standing form of Anti-Masonry, with the earliest criticisms coming from the Roman Catholic Church. The Church's opposition to Freemasonry began in the 18th century, when Pope Clement XII issued the papal bull In Eminenti Apostolatus, which condemned Freemasonry and excommunicated any Catholic who became a Freemason. The Church's opposition to Freemasonry has persisted to the present day, with the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith reaffirming the Church's prohibition on Catholics joining Masonic lodges in 1983.
Political Opposition
Political opposition to Freemasonry has taken many forms throughout history, ranging from conspiracy theories alleging Masonic control of governments to legislative efforts to suppress Freemasonry. One of the earliest examples of political Anti-Masonry was the Unlawful Societies Act 1799 in the United Kingdom, which was ostensibly aimed at suppressing seditious societies but was widely seen as targeting Freemasons. In the United States, Anti-Masonry culminated in the formation of the Anti-Masonic Party, which was the first third party in the United States and had a significant impact on American politics in the 19th century.
Anti-Masonic Conspiracy Theories
Anti-Masonic conspiracy theories form a significant part of the Anti-Masonry movement. These theories often allege that Freemasons wield disproportionate influence in society and are involved in a wide range of nefarious activities. Some of the most common Anti-Masonic conspiracy theories include allegations of Masonic control of the financial system, the media, and the government. These theories often overlap with other conspiracy theories, such as those involving the Illuminati or the New World Order.
Impact and Influence
The impact and influence of Anti-Masonry have varied greatly over time and across different societies. In some cases, Anti-Masonry has resulted in significant political and social changes. For example, the Anti-Masonic Party in the United States played a key role in the development of the American political system, introducing innovations such as nominating conventions and party platforms. In other cases, Anti-Masonry has served as a vehicle for other political or religious movements, such as the Know Nothing movement in the United States or the Action Française movement in France.
Modern Anti-Masonry
In the modern era, Anti-Masonry continues to be a significant force in certain societies. In some countries, such as Iran and Saudi Arabia, Freemasonry is officially banned and Anti-Masonry is a state policy. In other countries, Anti-Masonry is more of a fringe movement, often associated with conspiracy theories and far-right political ideologies. However, even in these societies, Anti-Masonry can have a significant impact, as seen in the proliferation of Anti-Masonic conspiracy theories on the internet and in popular culture.