AntiMasons

AntiMasons, also known as Anti-Masonicism, refers to a historical movement that emerged in the late 18th and early 19th centuries, primarily in response to the growing influence and perceived secretive nature of Freemasonry, a fraternal organization. The movement was characterized by a combination of religious, political, and social motivations, with its proponents often advocating for the abolition of slavery, the promotion of democratic values, and the exposure of what they saw as Masonic conspiracies.

AntiMasons believed that Freemasonry was a secret society that sought to undermine traditional religious and political institutions. They often targeted Masonic lodges, their members, and their symbols, such as the square and compasses, which they saw as emblematic of Masonic influence. The movement's activities included the destruction of Masonic property, the publication of anti-Masonic literature, and the formation of anti-Masonic societies.

The AntiMasonic movement reached its peak in the United States during the early 19th century, with notable figures like Joseph Smith, the founder of the Latter Day Saint movement, and John C. Calhoun, a prominent politician, being associated with the movement. However, the movement gradually declined in the mid-19th century as Freemasonry became more open and democratic, and as the political and social landscape changed.

Today, the term AntiMason is often used pejoratively to describe individuals who oppose Freemasonry or its members, regardless of their motivations or the historical context of the movement. It is important to note that the historical AntiMasonic movement was not a unified entity, and its members often held a wide range of beliefs and motivations.