The modern online world is well acquainted with the Illuminati. Ever since their inception, this 18th century secret society has captured the imaginations of millions. In the 21st century, this very real organization created in 1776 has morphed into a generic conspiratorial society progressing a sinister new world order. The truth however lies somewhere in between.
The Illuminati can only be analyzed within the context from which it was spawned. Such an analysis includes the regular academic consensus but also the more important connections to esoteric groups stretching all the way back to the ancient Egyptian mystery schools. Certain secret societies such as the Freemasons and even the Catholic Church are closely intertwined with the Illuminati and must be included in order to gain a full account of the Illuminati itself.