Illuminati
A historical secret society founded in 1776 in Bavaria, later suppressed, but whose name has been adopted by countless conspiracy theories.
Documented record
Known Facts
The Illuminati was founded on May 1, 1776, by Adam Weishaupt in Ingolstadt, Bavaria.
The society was based on Enlightenment principles and opposed religious influence on public life.
The Illuminati was banned by the Bavarian government in 1785.
Weishaupt went into exile and the society was effectively dissolved.
The Illuminati has been the subject of conspiracy theories claiming it controls world events.
No evidence supports the existence of a modern Illuminati controlling world affairs.
Supporting claims & documentation
Evidence For
Historical Documentation
PRIMARY SOURCEOriginal Illuminati documents and correspondence were seized by Bavarian authorities.
SOURCE:Bavarian government archives
Counterpoints & criticisms
Evidence Against
Dissolved in 1785
PRIMARY SOURCEThe Illuminati was banned and effectively dissolved in the 18th century.
SOURCE:Bavarian government records
No Modern Evidence
ANALYSISNo credible evidence supports the existence of a modern Illuminati.
SOURCE:Historical / Conspiracy analysis
Unresolved inquiries
Open Questions
What was the true extent of the original Illuminati's influence?
Why did the Illuminati conspiracy theory persist for centuries?
Are there any modern groups claiming Illuminati lineage?
What is the connection between Illuminati theories and antisemitism?
Chronological record
Timeline
Adam Weishaupt founds the Illuminati in Bavaria.
Bavarian government bans the Illuminati.
Illuminati conspiracy theories spread in Europe and America.
Connected dossiers
Related Investigations
References & further reading
Sources
Automatically discovered links
Related Connections
Both reference Bavaria and Germany.
Both reference Germany and Europe.
Both reference Europe.