The Freemasons are one of the world’s oldest and most influential fraternal organizations. Freemasonry is a unique network of brotherly love, relief and truth, with its roots stretching back centuries. Throughout the centuries, Freemasonry has attracted many prominent figures, both in history and today. Here is a list of some of the most famous Freemasons who have left their mark on the world.
George Washington was the first President of the United States of America, and he was also a Freemason. He was initiated into the Lodge at Fredericksburg, Virginia in 1752 and advanced to the degree of Master Mason in 1753. As President, he attended several Masonic events and laid cornerstone ceremonies for various landmarks including the Capitol Building in Washington, D.C. Washington was a strong advocate for Freemasonry, believing that its principles of friendship, morality and brotherly love were essential to the success of a young nation. His commitment to Freemasonry was unwavering until his death in 1799.
Ben Franklin: Founding Father and Freemason
Benjamin Franklin was one of the most influential Founding Fathers of the United States, and a prominent figure in American history. He was a scientist, inventor, statesman, diplomat, philosopher and Freemason. Franklin was a key figure in creating the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution of the United States. He is also remembered for his numerous contributions to science and technology. His legacy as a Freemason has been an integral part of his life story.
Franklin joined St John’s Lodge No 3 in Philadelphia in 1731. It was one of the first Masonic lodges established in America. He played an important role in the development of Freemasonry in America during its early stages – helping to create new Masonic lodges and rituals. As Grand Master of Pennsylvania from 1734-1735, he even helped create a new version of the ancient Charges that were used by Masons at that time.
In addition to being an active member of St John’s Lodge, Franklin also served as Grand Master or Deputy Grand Master for other lodges throughout the colonies. He had close ties with other prominent Masons of his day such as Paul Revere and George Washington. His influence on Freemasonry spread far beyond Philadelphia – he was even involved with Masonic lodges in France during his tenure as ambassador there from 1776-1785.
Franklin’s influence on Freemasonry can still be seen today – many lodges have adopted symbols associated with him such as “Poor Richard” (his pseudonym) or “The American Phoenix” (a symbol associated with him). His writings on morality and virtue are still studied by Masons around the world. Franklin’s legacy lives on through his contributions to both American history and Freemasonry.
Throughout his life, Benjamin Franklin embodied many principles that are still held dear by Masons today – including brotherly love, charity, truthfulness, morality and justice.
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart: Freemason Composer
Mozart was a beloved composer and musician from the 18th century who left his mark on Classical music. He was also one of the most celebrated Freemasons of all time. He joined the organization in 1784 and held the title of Master Mason until his death in 1791. Mozart’s involvement with Freemasonry played an important role in his life and music.
Mozart was introduced to Freemasonry by his friend, Michael Puchberg. Puchberg was a wealthy businessman and a major source of financial support for Mozart during his later years. It is believed that Mozart joined the organization due to Puchberg’s influence as well as to gain access to higher social circles. His membership provided him with the opportunity to meet influential people and make connections within Vienna’s elite circles.
Mozart’s involvement in Freemasonry had a positive effect on both his personal life and career. Through his membership, he gained access to cultural events, gained knowledge of philosophical topics, and made important contacts that helped him find employment opportunities. Additionally, Freud believed that Freemasonry provided Mozart with a sense of belonging and security during a time when he felt isolated from society.
Mozart’s membership in the organization is reflected in many of his works. Many of them contain Masonic symbols or references to Masonic themes such as brotherhood, unity, justice, peace, virtue, wisdom, and immortality. For example, The Magic Flute contains an overture that includes Masonic symbols such as crossed swords and trowels.
The influence of Freemasonry can also be seen in some of Mozart’s more personal works such as Eine Kleine Nachtmusik which contains references to Masonic ideals such as brotherhood and unity. Additionally, some scholars believe that The Magic Flute is an allegory for Masonic initiation ceremonies.
In reflection, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart was an important figure in both music history and Freemasonry history. His involvement with the organization had a profound impact on both his personal life and career as well as on many of his works which contain Masonic symbols or references to Masonic themes.
Jose Rizal: Philippine National Hero and Freemason
Jose Rizal is a national hero of the Philippines, and he was also a Freemason. He was born in 1861 in Calamba, Laguna, and he studied at the University of Santo Tomas. Rizal is remembered for his writings and activism which led to reforms in the Philippines. He was also a member of the Masonic lodge called Logia Solidaridad No. 153. He used his membership in the lodge to advocate for peace and spiritual enlightenment among its members.
Rizal’s involvement with Freemasonry began when he was invited to join Logia Solidaridad No. 153 by its founder, Jose Alejandrino, in 1884. As a member of the lodge, Rizal used his position to promote peace and unity among its members as well as to fight against Spanish colonialism. He wrote several articles and essays in support of his cause, such as “The Duties of Man” which was published in La Solidaridad, a newspaper founded by Filipino masons.
Rizal’s involvement with Freemasonry also extended beyond his activism for peace and independence from Spanish colonialism; he believed that it could help him develop spiritually as well. This was because the teachings of Freemasonry were based on ethical principles which emphasized morality and righteousness; something which resonated with Rizal’s desire for spiritual enlightenment. In addition, he believed that through Freemasonry he could learn valuable lessons about leadership which would be useful when leading a revolution against Spanish rule.
Rizal’s commitment to Freemasonry can be seen in his actions during his imprisonment before his execution by the Spanish government in 1896; when given an opportunity to escape from prison he refused because it would have meant breaking his Masonic vows of obedience and loyalty towards Logia Solidaridad No. 153. This shows just how important Freemasonry was to him; even though it may have cost him his life, he chose not to break away from it because it had become such an integral part of who he was.
Rizal’s commitment to Freemasonry is still remembered today; after all, it helped shape him into one of the most important figures in Philippine history – a national hero who sacrificed himself for the cause of freedom from Spanish rule. His legacy lives on through Masonry lodges across the country which continue to promote peace, unity and spiritual enlightenment among their members – ideals which are still shared by Jose Rizal more than 120 years after his death.
Voltaire: French Writer and Freemason
One of the most influential writers of all time, Voltaire was a French philosopher during the Enlightenment period, who also happened to be a Freemason. Born in 1694, Voltaire was a prolific writer, producing plays, prose fiction, poetry, essays and historical and scientific works over his lifetime. He was often outspoken in his criticism of the Catholic Church and other institutions that he felt were oppressive to freedom of thought. He was an advocate for civil liberties and human rights. As a Freemason, Voltaire was dedicated to the principles of brotherhood and tolerance.
Voltaire was initiated into Freemasonry while living in England in 1732. It is believed that he became a Mason while staying at the home of Lord Chesterfield. During this time, he wrote his famous work “Candide” which is now considered one of the greatest pieces of literature ever written. Voltaire’s involvement with Freemasonry would shape his writing and influence his views on religion and politics throughout his life.
Voltaire believed strongly in religious tolerance as well as freedom of speech. His writings often tackled themes related to religious persecution and intolerance as well as political oppression. He saw Freemasonry as a way to bring people together from different backgrounds who shared similar values and beliefs about justice and equality. For example, he wrote: “If men were all equal before God they should be equal by law” which is still a motto adopted by many Masonic lodges today.
Voltaire’s philosophy on religion and politics had a lasting impact on society even after his death in 1778. His ideas continue to be studied by scholars today who recognize him as one of the most important figures in Enlightenment thought. As a Freemason, Voltaire helped spread Masonic ideals throughout Europe during his lifetime – ideals which continue to be important today as we strive for greater understanding between cultures and religions around the world.
Giuseppe Garibaldi: Italian Freemason
Giuseppe Garibaldi was an Italian patriot, soldier, and leader of the Risorgimento movement. He was a Freemason and a member of the Grand Orient of Italy. He was also one of the most influential figures in Italian history, and his legacy is still remembered today.
Garibaldi was born in Nice, then part of the Kingdom of Piedmont-Sardinia. His father was a merchant from Genoa who had moved to Nice with his family. At an early age, Garibaldi showed an aptitude for military life and joined the local volunteer battalion at age 18.
Garibaldi’s career as a soldier began in 1833 when he joined the Piedmontese army. He served with distinction in several campaigns against both Austrian and French forces and quickly rose to prominence as an officer. In 1849, he joined a secret society known as La Giovine Italia (Young Italy), which sought to unify Italy under one government.
In 1854, Garibaldi began his association with Freemasonry when he joined The Grand Orient of Italy Lodge in Florence. This allowed him to become involved in various reform movements across Europe and further his cause for Italian unification. In 1859, he formed a volunteer corps known as the Red Shirts which fought against Austrian forces in northern Italy during the Second War of Independence. The Red Shirts were instrumental in driving out Austrian forces from much of northern Italy and establishing the Kingdom of Sardinia-Piedmont as the dominant power in the region.
Garibaldi’s involvement with Freemasonry continued throughout his life, even after gaining fame for his military exploits during unification efforts. In 1860, he founded The Universal Lodge in Palermo which focused on spreading education among Italians through its members’ involvement in various charitable activities such as helping prisoners and providing medical care to those less fortunate than themselves.
Garibaldi’s legacy continues today through numerous monuments dedicated to him across Italy as well as his association with Freemasonry which is still active today. His impact on Italian history cannot be overstated; without him there would not be a unified country today but instead a collection of small independent states or provinces held together by weak alliances between aristocrats or dictatorships established by foreign powers such as France or Austria.
Garibaldi’s involvement with Freemasonry enabled him to become one of the most influential figures in modern Italian history due to his ability to mobilise people around a shared cause – that being independence from foreign rule – while also providing support for social justice initiatives such as education reform and charitable activities aimed at those less fortunate than himself.
John Singer Sargent: American Painter and Freemason
John Singer Sargent (1856-1925) was an American painter and a Freemason. He was born in Florence, Italy to American parents, and spent most of his life in Europe. He is best known for his society portraits and watercolors, although he also painted landscapes and religious subjects. Sargent was a prominent member of the Freemasons, joining the English Lodge of Harmony at Florence in 1878. He was later inducted into the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts in 1891.
Sargent is considered one of the greatest portrait painters of his time. He is often referred to as “the painter of elegance” – due to his ability to capture a sitter’s natural beauty and grace in a painting. His work often featured luxurious fabrics, fine jewelry, opulent settings, and glamorous women. He also developed a unique style of watercolor painting which he used to capture everyday scenes from life.
Sargent’s paintings are held in major museums around the world including the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City, The National Gallery in London, The Louvre in Paris, and The Prado Museum in Madrid. His works have inspired other artists such as Pablo Picasso and Jackson Pollock. As a Freemason, Sargent’s work reflects the ideals of brotherhood that are so integral to Freemasonry – unity, respect for others, service to humanity and humility.
In addition to his painting career, Sargent served as an officer with the British Red Cross during World War I. He also wrote articles on art for various publications such as The Studio Magazine and Harper’s Monthly Magazine. After his death in 1925 he left behind an impressive legacy as both an artist and a Freemason that has been admired by generations since then.
John Singer Sargent was an artist whose works have stood the test of time – both technically brilliant yet emotionally charged paintings that capture something essential about their subjects – whether it be nobility or fragility or beauty or defiance – that will continue to resonate with audiences for many years to come. Through his artistry he also provided us with unique insight into what it meant to be part of the Masonic Brotherhood during this period in history.
John Hancock: Signer of the Declaration of Independence and Freemason
John Hancock was one of the most prominent figures in American history. He was a signer of the Declaration of Independence, and a leader in the American Revolution. He was also a prominent Freemason, and served as Grand Master of the Massachusetts Grand Lodge from 1792 to 1794.
Hancock was born in Braintree, Massachusetts, in 1737. His father died when he was seven, leaving him to be raised by his wealthy uncle and aunt. After attending Harvard College, he went into business with his uncle’s mercantile firm. He quickly made a name for himself as an astute businessman, and became one of the wealthiest men in New England.
Hancock became involved in politics at an early age, serving as a member of the Massachusetts House of Representatives from 1766 until 1774. He was elected President of the Provincial Congress in 1775, and became Governor of Massachusetts later that year. In 1776, he signed the Declaration of Independence, becoming one of its most recognizable signers due to his large signature on the document.
Hancock’s involvement with Freemasonry began in 1760 when he joined St. Andrew’s Lodge in Boston. He rose through the ranks quickly; by 1777 he had been elected Grand Master for North America by delegates from various lodges around America. During his tenure as Grand Master, he issued numerous charters to new lodges across New England and beyond.
Throughout his life Hancock remained loyal to both Freemasonry and the cause of American independence. After resigning as Governor in 1785 due to ill health, he devoted himself to Masonic affairs until his death in 1803 at age sixty-five. Today John Hancock is remembered both as one of America’s Founding Fathers and an important figure within the Masonic tradition.
In Reflection on Top Ten Famous Freemasons
The history of Freemasonry is vast and complex. Its members have included some of the most famous and influential people in history. From politicians to military leaders, from poets to industrialists, these ten famous Freemasons have had a tremendous impact on the world we live in today.
George Washington was a great leader who led the United States to freedom and helped lay the foundation for a nation that would become one of the most powerful and respected countries in the world. Benjamin Franklin was an inventor, scientist and statesman who helped shape America’s early government and economy. Winston Churchill was an inspiring wartime leader whose courage and determination helped Britain stand up to Nazi Germany during World War II.
Albert Pike was an influential figure in Masonic philosophy whose writings have inspired countless generations of Masons. William Morgan was an anti-Mason whose disappearance brought about a resurgence of interest in the fraternity and resulted in reforms being made to how it operates today.
Josiah Hayden Drummond was an important author who wrote several books about the Masonic Order that are still widely read today. Charles Taze Russell was a religious figure who founded a church based on his own interpretation of scripture, which has since grown into one of the largest religious organizations in the world.
Theodore Roosevelt was America’s 26th President, known for his progressive policies that promoted conservationism, trust-busting and civil rights advocacy. Franklin D Roosevelt was America’s 32nd President, whose leadership during World War II helped bring victory over Nazi Germany while also laying out a plan for economic recovery following the Great Depression. And finally, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart was one of history’s greatest composers, whose music continues to be enjoyed by millions around the world.
These ten famous Freemasons have left indelible marks on society and their legacies will continue to shape our lives for generations to come. They served as role models and examples of what it means to live with honor and integrity while also striving for excellence in all areas of life. It is with profound respect that we remember them today as symbols of what can be accomplished when we stay true to our principles no matter what challenges life may bring our way.
Franklin joined St John’s Lodge No 3 in Philadelphia in 1731. It was one of the first Masonic lodges established in America. He played an important role in the development of Freemasonry in America during its early stages – helping to create new Masonic lodges and rituals. As Grand Master of Pennsylvania from 1734-1735, he even helped create a new version of the ancient Charges that were used by Masons at that time.