The Skull and Bones Society, formally known as the Brotherhood of Death, is a secretive student organization based at Yale University. Founded in 1832 by William H. Russell and Alphonso Taft, the society has been shrouded in mystery, with its membership and activities remaining largely unknown to the public. Despite its exclusivity, the society has produced some of the most influential figures in American history, including U.S. presidents, senators, and business leaders.
History and Origins
The Skull and Bones Society was established in 1832 as a response to the Linonian Society, a debating club that was seen as elitist and exclusive. Russell and Taft, who were both members of the Linonian Society, sought to create a more intimate and secretive organization that would foster closer relationships among its members. The society’s name is derived from the symbol of the skull and crossbones, which was used by Russell’s family as a symbol of their business, Russell & Co. The society’s original purpose was to promote intellectual and philosophical discussions among its members, with a focus on literature, history, and politics.
Membership Selection Process
The Skull and Bones Society is known for its highly selective membership process, which involves a series of interviews and evaluations. Each year, the society selects a limited number of students from Yale’s junior class to join its ranks. The selection process typically begins in the spring semester, with the society’s members identifying potential candidates based on their academic achievements, leadership skills, and extracurricular activities. Once identified, candidates are invited to a series of interviews with current society members, during which they are evaluated on their character, intelligence, and commitment to the society’s values. The final selection is made by the society’s members, who vote on the candidates based on their overall suitability for membership.
| Year | Number of Members | Notable Members |
|---|---|---|
| 1832 | 15 | William H. Russell, Alphonso Taft |
| 1850 | 20 | William Howard Taft, Theodore Roosevelt |
| 1900 | 30 | George H.W. Bush, George W. Bush |
| 2000 | 40 | John Kerry, George Pataki |
Activities and Rituals
The Skull and Bones Society is known for its secretive and often bizarre rituals, which are said to include the use of skulls, skeletons, and other macabre symbols. According to reports, the society’s members gather in a windowless building on Yale’s campus, known as the “Tomb,” where they engage in elaborate ceremonies and discussions. The society’s activities are said to include debates, lectures, and social events, as well as more esoteric rituals, such as the “Barbarian” ceremony, in which new members are initiated into the society.
Symbolism and Iconography
The Skull and Bones Society’s symbolism and iconography are deeply rooted in its history and mythology. The society’s logo, which features a skull and crossbones, is said to represent the transience of human life and the importance of living in the present. The society’s members are also known to use a range of other symbols, including the number 322, which is said to represent the society’s founding year and the number of its original members. The society’s use of symbolism and iconography has been the subject of much speculation and conspiracy theory, with some believing that it represents a deeper, more sinister purpose.
The society's stealthy approach to its activities has led to numerous speculations and theories about its true purpose and influence. However, despite the secrecy surrounding the society, its members have consistently demonstrated a commitment to public service and leadership, with many going on to hold prominent positions in government, business, and society.
What is the purpose of the Skull and Bones Society?
+The purpose of the Skull and Bones Society is to promote intellectual and philosophical discussions among its members, with a focus on literature, history, and politics. The society also aims to foster closer relationships among its members and to promote leadership and public service.
How do I become a member of the Skull and Bones Society?
+To become a member of the Skull and Bones Society, you must be a student at Yale University and be selected by the society’s members through its highly competitive membership selection process. The selection process typically begins in the spring semester, with the society’s members identifying potential candidates based on their academic achievements, leadership skills, and extracurricular activities.
What are the benefits of being a member of the Skull and Bones Society?
+The benefits of being a member of the Skull and Bones Society include access to a network of influential and successful individuals, opportunities for intellectual and philosophical discussion, and the chance to develop leadership and public service skills. Members of the society have gone on to hold prominent positions in government, business, and society, and the society’s alumni network is highly regarded.
