Freemasons: A History and Exploration of the World's Oldest Secret Society

By H. Paul Jeffers

In Freemasons, H. Paul Jeffers delves into Masonic history to reveal the surprising and controversial truth behind this ancient and secretive order, from its mystery-shrouded origins in medieval Europe through to its rise in America, where Benjamin Franklin founded the first lodge. Today, some 4 to 5 millions Freemasons worldwide pledge to live their lives in accordance with the principles of morality, charity and loyalty. In this fascinating guide that explores the myths and realities of Freemasonry the veil of secrecy is finally lifted.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0806526629
• ISBN13: 9780806526621
• Release Date: March 2005
• Publisher: Citadel Press
• Length: 256 Pages
• Weight: 0.66 lbs.
• Dimensions: 8.9" x 0.7" x 6.0"

Customer Reviews

"I am not a Freemason,Dr Morris,though I have great respect for it."--Abraham Lincoln

Though never a member of any fraternity,I have always had a passing interest in what they were all about.The author claims that the Freemasons are the world's oldest secret society.Whether that be true or not;it has existed for a very long time in one form or another. He makes a good attempt to trace it roots back to the building of Solomon's Temple.With all that has happened since that time,all the histories that have been written,all the organizations that have existed,and on and on;it is unlikely that complete agreement on all the history of the Freemasons will ever be resolved.Heck,the author shows that even the Freemasons have widely different views. What we seem to find is that there were organizations from Solomon's time and probably even before,and without doubt organizations of Masons exist today;how they got from there to here is intriguing. I have read quite a bit of history,from Ancient times to the present and Masons,Templars or whatever form or organization was involved at any particular time;there is little doubt that they existed and played important parts in all areas of history.Remember, it is the people who belonged to them is what was important;even moreso than the organization itself. Yes,they are a secret organization,not unlike many others. Yes,there are many things said about them,both good and bad.Yes ,they have been maligned and persecuted by just about every country and organization imaginable.All one can really say about that is;"Well,join the club!" The author has set out to show as fairly as possible the history,aims and whatnot and ,rather than make any judgements,leaves the reader to make up his own mind as what to make of it all. Quite honestly,I didn't think he exposed any sinister secrets. Heshows tha Freemasons had major involvement in the development of the United States and Canada.Whether you look at Political leaders,businessmen,Scientists,Mosicians,leaders in the Arts,Medicine,Generals or any other walks of life;you will find men who believed in God,and wanted to do all they were able to serve their country and fellow men.Of course,this was not onlytrue of Freemasons;many other people and organizations had similar aims and also were subjected to similat persecutions and misrepresentations. If one reads this ook with an open mind ,one would come to the same conclusion as did Abraham Lincoln did in my title. Organizations,down through the ages,with the highest of principles and aspirations have had problems with human failings amongst its members,and have been maligned for all kinds of reasons The Freemasons seem to be no different. I thought the list of Famous Masons the author provided shows that Freemasonry cuunts some of the finest people who made tremendous contributions in the development of the United States and Canada. Maybe we are all better off by thinking about what these people saw,believed and how they led their lives;rather than looking for something sinister in the organization.

an excelent read

Like many before me who have writen reviews on this book I to am a mason and I found this book extreemely useful in my studies. If you are a Mason, wishing to become a Mason, or just plain curious then I higly recomend this book.

Two Thumbs Up

This book is a must for any persons who are interested in secret societies. The information provided by this book will not only help readers understand the history of Freemasons; it also paves the way for scholars and investigative reporters in comparing secret societies of the West and the East.

The best book on the subject!

Ever since reading DA VINCI CODE, I've wanted to read more about Freemasonry. This book offers a wealth of information on the subject and is written in a very entertaining way--not scholarly at all. Highly recommended.

Great book about a fascinating subject!

I picked up this book because I'd read that Dan Brown's next novel is about the Freemasons and I wanted to get a headstart. I was not disappointed. It's a terrific read about the Freemasons--the oldest and most secretive of the world's secret societies--and what goes on behind their closed doors.