[SR71A]

Did they not give rise to the Scottish Rite side of Freemasonry?

The Masonic organization for males under 21 is called The Order of DeMolay. I know, I was one, but even at 16, I could recognize idiotic mumbo-jumbo when I saw it, and I dropped out. =) I think I was the High Left Chamberlain, or some such ridiculous title. They have their degrees, and secret handshakes, and all that crap. Don't ask me to reveal the high secret handshake, though; I might have to report you and you'll be murdered under a bridge at the full moon or something. =)

Ah, the Masons, and the Knights Templar -- the Templars were the original conspiracy crowd. They would have had tinfoil helmets, if it was around in those days.

[Pharmboy]

While feel similarly to you about secret handshakes and such, I am more positively disposed to the Masons. First, George Washington was a Mason and I am a devoted Washingtonian. Second, as an amateur historian of the American Revolution, it is enlightening to learn how much the ideas of 18th century Freemasonry contributed to the founding of this Republic.

The secret stuff does keep me from applying for membership however.

[rightofrush]

Ah, the Masons, and the Knights Templar -- the Templars were the original conspiracy crowd. They would have had tinfoil helmets, if it was around in those days.

It was. 2000+ years ago, it was exported from Southern Brittan.

[Redleg Duke]

Your loss.