Is Donald Trump A Mason? The Truth!

Is Donald Trump a mason? Curiosity and speculation often surround public figures, none more so than former President Donald Trump. One theory that has gained traction is whether he is a Mason. 

Conspiracy theories have fueled this debate, with some claiming that his actions and symbolism point to membership in the secret society. But how true is that?

Freemasonry has long been shrouded in secrecy, fueling the intrigue surrounding its members. This is why we will address the issue of Donald Trump and his involvement with the secret society today. 

So, is Donald Trump a Mason?

Some claim that Donald Trump’s hand signs and gestures, such as the pyramid symbol and the triangle, are evidence of his affiliation with the Masons. 

Others argue that it’s merely a coincidence or a result of his showmanship. Despite the rumors, there is no concrete evidence to support the claim that Donald Trump is a Mason. 

Like many public figures, he has been the subject of numerous rumors and theories that can’t be substantiated.

Who Are the Freemasons?

Freemasonry, rooted in the local guilds of stonemasons, has evolved into two distinct branches: Regular Freemasonry and Continental Freemasonry. 

The former upholds certain requirements, such as opening a volume of scripture and the belief in a Supreme Being, while excluding women and steering clear discussions on religion and politics. 

On the other hand, Continental Freemasonry offers fewer or no such restrictions, allowing for a more inclusive and open approach to its members. 

Despite their differences, both branches of Freemasonry continue to foster brotherhood, unity, and the pursuit of knowledge among its dedicated adherents.

The exact beginnings of modern Freemasonry are lost in the history of the Middle Ages, but it is believed to have been founded in England in 1717. 

Its roots can be traced back to guilds of stonemasons that established a system of qualifications in the late 13th century. 

For a stonemason to advance to the next rank, he had to be tested and given passwords and certain grips that only he would know. 

This made it easier for masons to travel for work and receive the salary and privileges that befitted their skill level. 

In present-day Freemasonry, the same system of secrets and rituals is still used, although the focus has shifted from building structures to building one’s character.

How Do You Become a Mason?

Are you thinking of joining the Freemasons? The process typically begins by meeting with current members to discuss your potential candidacy. 

This initial interaction allows for questions and information to be exchanged. Once you express your desire to join, you may need to formally apply and provide references for further assessment.

During the notice period, members take the opportunity to thoroughly assess the candidate’s suitability for Freemasonry. 

This evaluation process ensures that only individuals who align with the values and principles of the organization are accepted. 

Additionally, active members actively engage with candidates, attending social functions together and initiating inquiries to gauge their level of interest and commitment. 

You must proactively express your desire to join, as you may not receive an invitation without doing so. 

Once a formal application is proposed and seconded, a formal interview is conducted to investigate the candidate’s background and motivations for joining Freemasonry.

Before a candidate is initiated or rejected, an officially secret ballot is conducted, with the number of “blackballs” differing depending on the jurisdiction. 

For instance, the United Grand Lodge of England mandates only 1 “blackball,” while the Grand Lodge of New York requires 3. 

To become a member, every candidate must possess a reputation that is both free and good, although the specific standards may vary among different Grand Lodges. 

Additionally, minimum age requirements are in place, although exceptions can be made in special circumstances. 

In England, for example, the standard minimum age to join is 18; however, university lodges are granted dispensations to initiate undergraduates who are younger than that.

Christians have played a significant role in the history of Freemasonry, with many jurisdictions requiring candidates to adhere to the Christian faith. The Swedish Rite specifically accepts only Christians as members. 

However, it is interesting to note that there are also branches of Freemasonry, such as Liberal Freemasonry, which accept atheists as well. 

During the initiation ceremony, candidates must swear an obligation on their religious volume, highlighting the importance of doing good as a Mason. 

Part of this obligation includes promising to keep degree secrets and offering support to fellow Masons facing distress. 

While formal instruction is available, Freemasons are encouraged to explore the craft in their own unique and preferred manner.

Here Is What You Didn’t Know About Freemasonry

Freemasonry is a mysterious and often misunderstood secret society that has been of interest to many for centuries. 

While some may think of it as nothing more than a group of men gathering secretly to perform rituals, there is much more to Freemasonry than meets the eye. Here are the lesser-known aspects of Freemasonry that you should be aware of.

1. Freemasonry is not a religion

The secret society has the appearance of religion, given its ritualistic nature. However, no religious hierarchy exists, priests, ministers, rabbis, or any other clergy present. Every individual is a thinker.

2. Shriners are masons

Shriners, also known officially as the Ancient Arabic Order Nobles of the Mystic Shrine, are an offshoot of the Masons. 

This charity organization is widely known for participating in parades with miniature vehicles. 

Furthermore, they have set up 22 children’s hospitals that provide free medical care. To become a Shriner, an individual must already be a Mason.

3. The Catholic Church is against Freemasonry

In Europe, the Catholic Church was unsure what to make of the Freemasonry. This is because people wondered, “What could this be? Political conspiracy or religion?” when they noticed “men from different places and professions meeting in the cafe, enjoying food in unity and doing rituals.” 

Subsequently, in 1738, the Church condemned the fraternity and roughly 20 decrees against it. Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger (later Pope Benedict XVI) re-confirmed this position in 1983.

4. Most of the Founding Fathers were not members

Two of the United States’ first presidents, James Monroe and George Washington, were members of the Freemasons.

However, several major figures who participated in the American Revolution, such as Thomas Jefferson, John & Samuel Adams, Thomas Paine, and James Madison, were not part of the Masonic Brotherhood.

Of the 56 signers of the Declaration of Independence, verified Masons were only nine, as per the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania. 

Likewise, 13 out of the 39 delegates of the Continental Congress who helped draft the Constitution in 1787 (or a third of them) were Freemasons.

5. Freemasons inspired America’s first political third-party

In 1828, the Anti-Masonic Party was founded in the United States due to worries that the Masons had become too mysterious and influential. 

Several party members put forth theories of conspiracy related to the Freemasons, with some forerunners asserting that a notorious murder of the era had been perpetrated by the Masonic organization to prevent the victim from disclosing its mysteries.

The U.S. Dollar Bill Does Not Feature Any Hidden Masonic Symbols

The symbol of an incomplete pyramid with an eye on top found on the back of the dollar bill, has often been associated with Freemasonry. 

However, Margaret Jacob from UCLA explains that this symbol has been used by various groups throughout history, including Freemasons. 

She suggests that some Freemasons may claim it as their own to enhance the significance of their Lodges. 

Brent Morris further clarifies that those who promote the belief that these symbols are Masonic can be divided into pro-Masons and anti-Masons. 

Morris adds that the eye on top of the pyramid is a widely recognized symbol of God watching over humanity, found in different cultures over the centuries. 

The unfinished pyramid represents the ongoing formation and growth of the United States as a nation. This symbol was also present on a 50-pound Colonial note.

The origin of the Masonic password can be traced back to its roots as a job tool.

Masonry originated as a guild for stone masons during the Medieval period in Europe. Masons had to move from one job site to another as their work was not consistently available in one location. 

Illiteracy was common among masons and the officers of their guilds, which led to the development of the Masons’ word. 

This secret code allowed masons to identify themselves as trade union members when moving to different job sites. 

The Masons’ word can be traced back to Scotland in the early 1600s, enabling masons in one region, such as Edinburgh, to prove their membership to masons in another region, like Lancashire. 

In addition to the secret code, secret handshakes were also used to identify among masons. 

The purpose of these gestures was to authenticate membership and establish a sense of camaraderie within the guild.

United States Presidents That Were Freemasons

According to the secretive fraternal organization and renowned presidential historians, at least 14 presidents were members of the Masons or Freemasons. These include; 

1. George Washington – The nation’s first president, initiated as a Mason in Fredericksburg, Virginia, in 1752.
2. James Monroe – The fifth president, initiated as a Freemason in 1775 at the Mason’s lodge in Williamsburg, Virginia.
3. Andrew Jackson – The seventh president, known for defending the Masonic Lodge, achieved the rank of Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Tennessee.
4. James K. Polk – The 11th president, initiated as a Mason in 1820 and actively involved in Masonic rituals.
5. James Buchanan – The 15th president, joined the Masons in 1817 and achieved the rank of district deputy grand master in Pennsylvania.
6. Andrew Johnson – The 17th president, a loyal Mason who participated in Masonic events, emphasizing equality among members.
7. James A. Garfield – The 20th president, initiated as a Mason in 1861 in Columbus, Ohio.
8. William McKinley – The 25th president, known for his honesty and integrity as a Mason.
9. Theodore Roosevelt – The 26th president, made a Freemason in New York in 1901, recognized for his virtue and refusal to use Masonic status for political gain.
10. William Howard Taft – The 27th president, became a Mason in 1909 just before taking office, receiving a special acceptance.
11. Warren G. Harding – The 29th president, initially faced rejection but later accepted into the Masonic brotherhood, actively supporting Masonry during his presidency.
12. Franklin D. Roosevelt – The 32nd president, a 32nd Degree Mason, demonstrating a high level of Masonic knowledge.
13. Harry S. Truman – The 33rd president, served as Grand Master and achieved the 33rd degree in Masonry.
14. Gerald R. Ford – The 38th president, the most recent Masonic president, initiated into the fraternity in 1949.

Conclusion

Is Donald Trump a mason? No concrete evidence supports the claim that Donald Trump is a Mason. 

While there have been speculations and rumors surrounding his potential affiliation with the Freemasons, these claims remain unsubstantiated.

The lack of verifiable proof suggests that the assertion of Donald Trump being a Mason is purely speculative. 

As with any public figure, it is essential to approach these claims skeptically and refrain from concluding without proper evidence.