Secret societies have long been a part of the mystique surrounding elite American universities. Known for their exclusivity and influential alumni, these societies continue to captivate both members and outsiders. This article explores some of the most notable secret societies, their famous members, and the controversies that surround them today.
Skull and Bones
- Institution: Yale University
- Founded: 1832
- Notable Members: George H.W. Bush, George W. Bush, William Howard Taft[4]
- Current Climate: Skull and Bones has faced internal conflicts over its legacy and diversity initiatives. Recent efforts to diversify have led to tensions between current members and alumni[6][7].
- Controversies: The society has been criticized for its historical exclusivity and alleged possession of controversial relics like Geronimo’s skull[4][6].
The Flat Hat Club
- Institution: College of William & Mary
- Founded: 1750
- Current Status: As one of the oldest secret societies, it remains less active today but holds historical significance.
Quill and Dagger
- Institution: Cornell University
- Founded: 1893
- Notable Members: Ruth Bader Ginsburg, E.B. White, Janet Reno[1]
- Current Role: Known for its openness in membership announcements, Quill and Dagger continues to influence campus leadership circles[8].
Cadaver Society
- Institution: Washington and Lee University
- Founded: 1957
- Current Activities: Continues to operate with a focus on secrecy and tradition.
Seven Society
- Institution: University of Virginia
- Founded: Rumored 1905
- Recent Criticism: The society has faced scrutiny over alleged hazing practices and calls for transparency[5].
Eucleian Society
- Institution: New York University
- Founded: 1832
- Current Role: Once a literary society, it now operates more traditionally as a secret society.
The Order of Gimghoul
- Institution: University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill
- Founded: 1889
- Mystique: Known for Arthurian-themed rituals and its castle headquarters.
The Wolf’s Head Society
- Institution: Yale University
- Founded: 1883
- Notable Members: Malcolm Baldrige Jr., Leigh Bardugo[2]
- Diversity Efforts:: The society has adapted to modern inclusivity trends while maintaining its exclusive reputation[6]..Citations:
[1] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Quill_and_Dagger_members
[2] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wolf’s_Head_(secret_society)
[3] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Skull_and_Bones_members
[4] https://www.britannica.com/topic/Skull-and-Bones-Yale
[5] https://www.palladiummag.com/2021/12/16/the-lost-virtue-of-skull-and-bones/
[6] https://airmail.news/issues/2024-1-27/skeletons-in-the-closet
[7] https://www.theatlantic.com/ideas/archive/2024/01/yale-skull-and-bones-secret-societies-diversity/677030/
[8] https://sunspots.cornellsun.com/2017/03/24/114350/
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