Illuminati facts for kids
The Illuminati (the “enlightened ones”) was a secret society. Adam Weishaupt, a philosopher and lawyer, created it in 1776. In 1785 it was outlawed in Bavaria.
Originally, they opposed superstition, prejudice, religious influence over public life, and abuses of state power. They supported women’s education and gender equality.
Illuminati is the name of many groups, modern and historical, real and fictitious, verified and alleged. Most commonly, however, The Illuminati refers specifically to the Bavarian Illuminati.
Most alleged and fictitious uses refer to a shadowy conspiratorial organization which controls world affairs behind the scenes, usually a modern incarnation or continuation of the Bavarian Illuminati. Illuminati is sometimes used synonymously with New World Order (conspiracy).
Origins
Since Illuminati literally means 'enlightened ones' in Latin, it is natural that several unrelated historical groups have identified themselves as Illuminati, generally due to claims of gnostic texts or other arcane information not generally available.
The designation illuminati was also in use from the 15th century, assumed by enthusiasts of another type, who claimed that the illuminating light came from within, the result of exalted consciousness, or "enlightenment".
Images for kids
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Adam Weishaupt (1748–1830), founder of the Illuminati
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The Owl of Minerva perched on a book was an emblem used by the Bavarian Illuminati in their "Minerval" degree.
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Adolph Freiherr Knigge, the most effective recruiter for the Illuminati
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"Ruined" castle built by Prince Charles of Hesse-Kassel in the park at Wilhelmsbad, venue for the last convent of the Strict Observance
See also
In Spanish: Iluminados de Baviera para niños
