Throughout history, various secret societies and orders have played a significant role in shaping politics, culture, and even religion. These organizations often operate discreetly and are shrouded in mystery, giving rise to numerous conspiracy theories and myths. Let’s explore some of the most prominent secret societies from different eras:
1. The Illuminati (Bavarian Illuminati)
The Illuminati, founded in 1776 by Adam Weishaupt in Ingolstadt, Bavaria, is one of the most famous secret societies in history. It aimed to promote Enlightenment ideals, such as reason, secularism, and the separation of church and state. The order was disbanded in the late 18th century, but its name continues to be associated with various conspiracy theories.
The Bavarian Illuminati, often just called the Illuminati, has a history that is often shrouded in mystery and conspiracy, which can sometimes overshadow the actual historical facts of the organization.
1.1. Illuminati – Origins and Ideology
The Illuminati was founded on May 1, 1776, by Adam Weishaupt, a professor of Canon Law at the University of Ingolstadt. The group’s initial aim was to provide a forum for free thought and to oppose the influence of religion on public life and abuses of state power. Weishaupt was inspired by the ideals of the Enlightenment and sought to promote those values through a secret society that could work from within to effect change in society.
1.2. Illuminati – Structure and Recruitment
The Illuminati began as a small group with Weishaupt and four of his students. The structure of the society was modeled after the Jesuits and Freemasonry; it had a strict hierarchy and a complex system of degrees of membership. Weishaupt was known as “General” of the order. The Illuminati’s members were recruited from the elite of society and were particularly interested in intellectuals who had influence.
1.3. Illuminati – Expansion and Influence
The Illuminati initially had significant success in recruiting, and among its members were important intellectuals and politicians. At its peak, the society had anywhere from 600 to 2,500 members. The group’s influence, particularly in educational institutions, allowed it to disseminate Enlightenment ideas.
1.4. Illuminati – Conflict and Suppression
The society’s secrecy and radical goals eventually led to its downfall. It came into conflict with conservative and religious groups, particularly the Roman Catholic Church. In 1784, the Elector of Bavaria issued an edict banning all secret societies, including the Illuminati, and Weishaupt was banished from the country.
1.5. Illuminati – Conspiracy Theories and Modern Myth
After its suppression, the Illuminati lived on in myth. It became a scapegoat for various historical events, including the French Revolution. In modern times, the term “Illuminati” is used to refer to a supposed conspiratorial organization that masterminds events and controls world affairs, a far cry from the society’s original Enlightenment goals. These conspiracy theories have no historical basis but are part of popular culture’s fascination with the idea of secret societies and hidden powers behind the political scene.
The legacy of the Bavarian Illuminati is thus a combination of its actual historical role as a short-lived Enlightenment society and the much larger mythos that has been constructed around it in the centuries since its dissolution.
2. The Freemasons
The Freemasons, or Masonic Lodge, is a fraternal organization that traces its roots to the stonemason guilds of the Middle Ages. While it is not a secret society in the traditional sense, it is known for its rituals, symbols, and secretive nature. Freemasonry has had a significant influence on American history, with many Founding Fathers being members.
The Freemasons, often referred to as the Masonic Lodge, are a fraternal organization with historical roots that stretch back to the medieval stonemason guilds. Although not a secret society in the traditional sense, Freemasonry is recognized for its distinct rituals, symbols, and an air of secrecy that surrounds its activities. This organization has played a substantial role in the history of the United States, with numerous Founding Fathers counted among its members.
2.1. The Freemasons – Historical Origins
Freemasonry’s origins can be traced to the guilds of stonemasons who constructed cathedrals and other monumental structures in medieval Europe. These skilled craftsmen formed local lodges to protect their trade secrets, transmit knowledge, and provide support to their members.
2.2. The Freemasons – Evolution into a Fraternal Order
Over time, the Masonic lodges evolved into a fraternal order that admitted non-masons and focused on moral and philosophical teachings. The transition from operative (working) Masonry to speculative (philosophical) Masonry took place in the early 17th century.
2.3. The Freemasons – Distinctive Symbols and Rituals
Freemasonry is known for its use of symbols, many of which are derived from the tools and symbolism of medieval stonemasons. The square and compass, the apron, and the pillars are some of the most recognizable Masonic symbols. Rituals and ceremonies play a central role in Masonic practice, and they are typically secret and closely guarded within the organization.
2.4. The Freemasons – Influence on American History
Freemasonry has left a significant mark on American history. Many of the Founding Fathers, including George Washington, Benjamin Franklin, and John Hancock, were Freemasons. The Masonic ideals of liberty, equality, and fraternity influenced the development of the United States and its democratic principles.
2.5. The Freemasons – Public Perception and Conspiracy Theories
Freemasonry’s secretive nature and the influence of its members in various aspects of society have led to the creation of numerous conspiracy theories. These theories often depict the Freemasons as a shadowy organization with hidden agendas. It is important to note that the actual activities and goals of the Freemasons are less sinister and more focused on personal development and philanthropy.
In summary, the Freemasons have a rich historical background that goes beyond their origins as stonemason guilds. Their role in shaping American history and the enduring mystique surrounding their rituals and symbols continue to fascinate and intrigue.
3. The Knights Templar
The Knights Templar, founded in the 12th century during the Crusades, was a Christian military order. They became one of the most powerful and wealthy organizations of their time. The order was disbanded in the early 14th century, and legends about their hidden treasures and secrets persist to this day.
The Knights Templar, officially known as the Poor Fellow-Soldiers of Christ and of the Temple of Solomon, was a Christian military order founded in the early 12th century during the time of the Crusades. This order played a unique role in the history of the Middle Ages, and their legacy continues to captivate the popular imagination.
3.1. The Knights Templar – Foundation and Purpose
The Templars were established around 1119-1120 in Jerusalem. They were tasked with protecting Christian pilgrims traveling to the Holy Land and securing Christian holdings in the region. The order’s name was derived from their headquarters, located on the Temple Mount in Jerusalem, believed to be the site of Solomon’s Temple.
3.2. The Knights Templar – Military Might and Wealth
The Knights Templar quickly became a powerful military force in the Holy Land. They developed a reputation for their formidable combat skills and became a crucial element of the Christian military campaigns during the Crusades. Their vast wealth came from donations, land holdings, and banking operations, as they served as a sort of medieval financial institution. Pilgrims could deposit their assets with the Templars in Europe and receive letters of credit for the same amount in the Holy Land, making them one of the earliest forms of international bankers.
3.3. The Knights Templar – Dissolution and Persecution
The downfall of the Knights Templar began in the early 14th century. A combination of factors, including the loss of Christian territories in the Holy Land, led to increased scrutiny and jealousy. King Philip IV of France, heavily indebted to the Templars, sought their destruction. In 1307, he ordered the arrest of Templar leaders on charges of heresy, blasphemy, and other offenses.
3.4. The Knights Templar – The Friday the 13th Myth
The arrest of the Templars is often associated with the superstition surrounding Friday the 13th. It was on Friday, October 13, 1307, that King Philip IV’s agents conducted mass arrests of Templars. This date has since become synonymous with bad luck.
3.5. The Knights Templar – Legends and Mysteries
The Templars’ abrupt dissolution and the secrecy surrounding their activities have fueled numerous legends and mysteries. One of the most enduring is the belief that they possessed hidden treasures or knowledge, such as the Holy Grail or the Ark of the Covenant. These theories remain the subject of books, movies, and conspiracy theories to this day.
3.6. The Knights Templar – Enduring Legacy
Despite their dissolution, the Knights Templar’s legacy lives on in modern popular culture. They are often portrayed as symbols of chivalry, mystery, and intrigue. The Templars’ distinctive white mantles adorned with a red cross continue to be recognizable symbols, and their influence on the course of history is undeniable.
While the historical reality of the Templars is well-documented, the mythology and speculation surrounding their order ensure that they remain a subject of fascination and curiosity in the modern world.
4. The Thule Society
The Thule Society was a German occult organization formed in the early 20th century. It is known for its association with the rise of the Nazi Party in Germany. The society promoted nationalist and mystical beliefs and had a significant influence on some Nazi leaders.
4.1. The Thule Society – Origins and Beliefs
The Thule Society emerged from the German Workers’ Party, which would later become the National Socialist German Workers’ Party, or the Nazi Party. It was founded in Munich shortly after the end of World War I, in 1918, by Rudolf von Sebottendorff and others. The society was named after Thule, which in ancient Greek and Roman literature was a far northern place, sometimes associated with Scandinavia or Iceland, and in esoteric beliefs was often linked to the mythical origins of the Aryan race.
4.2. The Thule Society – Influence on Nazi Ideology
While not all members of the Nazi Party were associated with the Thule Society, some of its early leaders had connections to the group. The society’s ideological blend of Germanic mythology, anti-Semitism, and Aryan supremacy had a notable influence on the burgeoning ideology of the Nazis. The Thule Society’s embrace of an idealized and mythical past, where a purportedly pure Aryan race once dominated, dovetailed with the Nazi’s racial purity agenda.
4.3. The Thule Society – Activities and Decline
The Thule Society engaged in a range of activities, including regular meetings for the discussion of occult and nationalist themes, publishing of propaganda material, and organizing political events. It attracted a number of prominent Germans of the time, including members of the Bavarian middle and upper classes.
The influence of the Thule Society waned as the Nazi Party rose to power. Once the Nazis had established their control over Germany, they suppressed many societies and groups, including occult and esoteric organizations, which they saw as potential rivals to their authority or as distractions from their political ideology.
4.4. The Thule Society – Legacy
The legacy of the Thule Society is a disturbing one, given its connection to the early ideological formation of the Nazi Party. In post-war years, the Thule Society became the subject of numerous conspiracy theories and speculative accounts that often attributed to it a more significant and secretive role in the origins of Nazism than historical evidence can firmly establish.
Its emphasis on mysticism and secret knowledge, combined with a virulent form of nationalism, serves as a historical example of how such beliefs can be interwoven with extreme political movements and ideologies. The Thule Society remains a point of interest for historians studying the esoteric and occult underpinnings of early Nazi thought and the cultural milieu of post-World War I Germany.
5. The Rosicrucians
The Rosicrucians are an esoteric and mystical society that claims ancient roots. They blend Christian mysticism, alchemy, and other spiritual beliefs. The Rosicrucians were particularly active in Europe during the 17th century.
The Rosicrucians, also known as the Rosicrucian Order, is an esoteric and mystical society with a history that dates back to the early 17th century. This society is associated with the blending of Christian mysticism, alchemy, and a range of spiritual beliefs. The Rosicrucians have been a subject of fascination and study for centuries.
5.1. The Rosicrucians – Origins and Beliefs
The Rosicrucians trace their origins to a series of texts, known as the Rosicrucian manifestos, published in the early 17th century in Europe. The most famous of these manifestos is the “Fama Fraternitatis,” which described a secret brotherhood dedicated to spiritual enlightenment, the study of the natural world, and the healing of the sick. The manifestos were published anonymously and claimed that the Rosicrucian order had ancient roots.
5.2. The Rosicrucians – Philosophy and Practices
Rosicrucian philosophy is deeply rooted in Christian mysticism, emphasizing spiritual transformation, inner illumination, and a connection with the divine. Alchemy and hermeticism also play a significant role in their beliefs, as they seek to transmute the base aspects of humanity into spiritual gold. The Rosicrucians believe in the pursuit of wisdom and knowledge as a means of attaining enlightenment.
5.3. The Rosicrucians – Secrecy and Influence
The Rosicrucians have a history of operating in relative secrecy, often through small, private groups and societies. Their teachings were disseminated through the publication of books, pamphlets, and correspondence. They were particularly active in the 17th century, and their ideas influenced a variety of later mystical and esoteric movements.
5.4. The Rosicrucians – Modern Rosicrucian Orders
Today, there are several different Rosicrucian orders and organizations around the world, each with its own interpretation of Rosicrucian philosophy and teachings. These organizations often focus on personal development, spiritual growth, and self-improvement. They may offer study materials, meditation practices, and rituals to help members on their spiritual journey.
5.5. The Rosicrucians – Cultural Impact
The Rosicrucians have left a significant mark on Western esoteric traditions and have been the subject of scholarly research, as well as the inspiration for various works of literature and art. Their emphasis on spiritual enlightenment and the pursuit of hidden knowledge continues to attract individuals interested in the esoteric and mystical aspects of life.
In summary, the Rosicrucians are an esoteric and mystical society that emerged in the 17th century and has had a lasting impact on Western spirituality. Their beliefs in spiritual transformation, alchemy, and the pursuit of wisdom continue to resonate with those who seek a deeper understanding of the mysteries of life and the universe.
6. The Order of Assassins (Hashshashin)
The Order of Assassins was a secret Islamic sect that operated during the Middle Ages. They were known for their political assassinations and for using psychological tactics to strike fear into their enemies. Their leader, Hassan-i Sabbah, was a central figure in their history.
The Order of Assassins, also known as the Hashshashin, was a secretive and influential Islamic sect that operated during the Middle Ages. This group was renowned for its political assassinations and its use of psychological tactics to instill fear in its enemies. The central figure in the history of the Assassins was their leader, Hassan-i Sabbah.
6.1. The Order of Assassins – Origins and Founding
The Order of Assassins was founded by Hassan-i Sabbah in the late 11th century in the mountainous regions of Persia (modern-day Iran). The group’s name, “Hashshashin,” is believed to be derived from the Arabic word “hashish,” possibly implying the use of intoxicants to inspire loyalty and commitment among its members.
6.2. The Order of Assassins – Political Assassinations
The Assassins gained a fearsome reputation for their strategic and deadly use of political assassinations. Their targets included political leaders, military figures, and religious authorities who opposed their interests. The Assassins believed that these killings would help advance their own political and religious goals.
6.3. The Order of Assassins – Tactics and Psychological Warfare
One of the distinctive features of the Hashshashin was their use of psychological warfare. Assassins were known to infiltrate their enemies’ ranks, often posing as trusted allies for extended periods. They would then carry out their assassinations, often in public, to maximize the psychological impact. The Assassins used terror as a weapon, and their reputation for stealth and ruthlessness made them particularly effective.
6.4. The Order of Assassins – Fortresses and Strongholds
The Assassins established mountain fortresses as their bases, including the famous Alamut fortress. These strongholds were strategically located, allowing the Assassins to exert control over key territories and exert their influence in the region.
6.5. The Order of Assassins – Hassan-i Sabbah
Hassan-i Sabbah was the founder and spiritual leader of the Assassins. He was a charismatic figure who was able to inspire loyalty among his followers. Under his leadership, the Assassins carried out their campaigns of assassination and psychological warfare.
6.6. The Order of Assassins – Decline and Disappearance
The Assassins’ power and influence began to decline in the 13th century, as the Mongol Empire expanded into the region. The capture of key Assassin strongholds, including Alamut, contributed to their decline. By the mid-13th century, the Assassins had largely disappeared as an organized force.
6.7. The Order of Assassins – Legacy and Cultural Impact
The legacy of the Assassins continues to be a subject of historical fascination. Their tactics and the use of the term “assassin” have made their way into popular culture. The term “assassin” itself is derived from the word “Hashshashin.” The Assassins’ history also served as the inspiration for various works of literature, including the writings of Marco Polo.
In summary, the Order of Assassins, or Hashshashin, was a secretive and influential sect that operated during the Middle Ages, known for its use of political assassinations and psychological warfare. Their leader, Hassan-i Sabbah, played a central role in their history, and their legacy endures as a subject of historical interest and cultural influence.
7. The Skull and Bones Society
The Skull and Bones is an undergraduate senior secret society at Yale University. Its members, known as “Bonesmen,” include many influential figures in American society. The society’s rituals and secrecy have fueled numerous conspiracy theories.
The Skull and Bones society, also known as “Bones,” is one of the most famous undergraduate secret societies in the United States, based at Yale University. Formed in 1832, it is known to select new members among students every spring as part of Yale University’s “Tap Day,” and its alumni include a range of prominent figures in various fields.
7.1. The Skull and Bones Society – Membership and Secrecy
Membership to the Skull and Bones is considered highly prestigious and is known to be quite exclusive, limited to only a handful of Yale seniors each year. The identities of these members, referred to as “Bonesmen,” are traditionally kept secret until they have graduated. However, the names of past members have become public over time, revealing a network of individuals who often hold significant power and influence in American society.
7.2. The Skull and Bones Society – Influence and Alumni
The society’s network includes former presidents, government officials, business leaders, and other influential personalities. This has led to speculation about the extent of its influence on American politics and business. The alleged connections and influence of its members have been the subject of scrutiny and the fodder for many conspiracy theories.
7.3. The Skull and Bones Society – Rituals and Activities
Details about the rituals and internal workings of the Skull and Bones are closely guarded, and what is known to the public often comes from leaked information and the accounts of outsiders. Their activities are rumored to include a variety of initiation rituals, annual rituals, and the use of symbolic artifacts. The society’s headquarters, a building known as the “Tomb,” is a windowless structure where these secret meetings and rituals are said to take place.
7.4. The Skull and Bones Society – Conspiracy Theories and Public Perception
The Skull and Bones society has been the subject of numerous conspiracy theories, partly due to its secrecy and the prominence of its members. It has been accused of everything from being a branch of the Illuminati to controlling various institutions for the benefit of its members.
7.5. The Skull and Bones Society – Cultural Impact
The society has been portrayed in books, movies, and television shows, often as a shadowy and powerful group pulling the strings behind the scenes. These portrayals have helped to cement the Skull and Bones’ place in American cultural mythology as an emblem of secrecy and power.
Despite the society’s secretive nature, it has had a noticeable impact on American culture and imagination, symbolizing the fascination with elite and clandestine organizations. Its true impact and the extent of its influence remain subjects of debate, and it continues to be a topic of interest both within and beyond academic circles.
8. The Fabian Society
The Fabian Society is a British socialist organization founded in the late 19th century. It advocates for gradual social and political change and has had a significant impact on the development of modern socialism in the UK.
The Fabian Society is a prominent British socialist organization with a history dating back to the late 19th century. It is known for its advocacy of gradual social and political change, and it has had a significant impact on the development of modern socialism in the United Kingdom.
8.1. The Fabian Society – Founding and Early History
The Fabian Society was founded in 1884 in London. It was established by a group of intellectuals and social reformers, including George Bernard Shaw, Sidney Webb, Beatrice Webb, and Graham Wallas. The society was named after the Roman general Quintus Fabius Maximus, known for his strategy of patience and gradualism.
8.2. The Fabian Society – Fabianism and Socialist Ideals
The Fabian Society embraced the principles of socialism, advocating for social and economic equality, workers’ rights, and social justice. However, the Fabians distinguished themselves from more radical socialist movements by their commitment to gradualism and a belief in the power of incremental reform within existing political systems.
8.3. The Fabian Society – Publications and Research
The Fabian Society is known for publishing research, policy proposals, and pamphlets on various social and economic issues. These publications were intended to educate the public and policymakers about Fabian principles and provide practical solutions for social problems. Their work helped shape the Labour Party’s policies and contributed to the development of the British welfare state.
8.4. The Fabian Society – Influence on British Politics
The Fabian Society played a crucial role in shaping the direction of British politics in the 20th century. Many of its members were involved in the Labour Party, and Fabian ideas influenced the party’s development and policies. The Labour Party, founded in 1900, eventually became a major political force in the UK.
8.5. The Fabian Society – Notable Achievements
The Fabian Society’s influence on British politics and society is reflected in several notable achievements, including the establishment of the National Health Service (NHS) and the welfare state in the post-World War II period. Many Fabians played key roles in these policy initiatives.
8.6. The Fabian Society – Modern Fabian Society
The Fabian Society continues to exist and remains active in the 21st century. It continues to publish research and policy proposals, contribute to political debates, and promote its vision of gradual, progressive reform.
In summary, the Fabian Society is a British socialist organization founded in the late 19th century. Its advocacy for gradual social and political change has had a lasting impact on the development of modern socialism in the United Kingdom and has influenced key policy developments in the country.
9. The Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn
The Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn, often referred to as the Golden Dawn, was a prominent 19th-century occult organization that brought together elements of Western esotericism, mysticism, and ceremonial magic. It counted among its members several famous figures, including Aleister Crowley and W. B. Yeats.
9.1. The Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn – Origins and Founding
The Golden Dawn was founded in London in the late 19th century, specifically in 1888, by three prominent figures: William Wynn Westcott, Samuel Liddell Mathers, and Dr. William Robert Woodman. The organization claimed a lineage from earlier esoteric traditions, particularly the Rosicrucians and the Masonic Orders.
9.2. The Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn – Hermeticism and Ritual Magic
The Golden Dawn was deeply rooted in Hermeticism, a philosophical and esoteric tradition that emphasizes the pursuit of spiritual wisdom, knowledge of the self, and the study of ancient texts. The organization incorporated a wide range of influences, including Kabbalah, alchemy, Tarot, astrology, and various ceremonial magic practices.
9.3. The Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn – Membership and Structure
The Golden Dawn was organized into a hierarchical system with various levels of membership. Initiates progressed through different grades, each associated with specific teachings and rituals. The organization’s structure and rituals were secretive and shrouded in symbolism.
9.4. The Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn – Prominent Members
The Golden Dawn attracted a diverse range of members, including artists, writers, scholars, and occultists. Aleister Crowley, one of the most famous and controversial figures in Western esotericism, was a member and later became associated with different occult traditions. W. B. Yeats, the renowned poet and playwright, was also a Golden Dawn member.
9.5. The Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn – Schisms and Conflicts
The Golden Dawn experienced internal conflicts and schisms, often related to leadership disputes and ideological differences. These divisions led to the creation of various offshoots and rival organizations, each claiming to represent the true tradition of the Golden Dawn.
9.6. The Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn – Legacy and Influence
The Golden Dawn’s influence on Western esotericism and occultism is significant. It contributed to the revival of interest in Hermeticism, the Tarot, and the Kabbalah in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Many modern Western esoteric traditions and practices owe a debt to the Golden Dawn’s teachings and rituals.
9.7. The Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn – Continuation and Modern Variations
While the original Golden Dawn organization eventually dissolved, various groups and individuals continue to study and practice its teachings. These modern variations of the Golden Dawn often seek to preserve and adapt the organization’s original rituals and philosophies to contemporary contexts.
In summary, the Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn was a 19th-century occult organization with a rich tradition of Western esotericism, mysticism, and ceremonial magic. Its influence on modern esoteric practices and its association with famous figures make it a significant chapter in the history of Western occultism.
10. The Priory of Sion (Prieuré de Sion)
The Priory of Sion is a name that has been involved in considerable controversy and intrigue, particularly after being popularized by books and films such as “The Da Vinci Code.” Claims about its existence and its role in history have been the subject of much debate and have often been met with skepticism by scholars.
10.1. The Priory of Sion – Alleged Origins
The Priory of Sion was purportedly founded as an order in Jerusalem during the First Crusade, with connections to the Merovingian dynasty and claims of preserving secret knowledge about the lineage of Jesus Christ and the Holy Grail. These claims were largely brought to public attention in the 20th century.
10.2. The Priory of Sion – Publicization and Theories
The society was popularized by the 1982 book “The Holy Blood and the Holy Grail,” which presented the hypothesis that the Priory of Sion was a secret society that protected the descendants of Jesus and Mary Magdalene. The book inspired various conspiracy theories and fictional works.
10.3. The Priory of Sion – Debunking and Controversy
Subsequent research and investigations, particularly by journalists and historians, have largely discredited the claims about the Priory of Sion as being part of an elaborate hoax. Documents and lists of Grand Masters of the Priory, which included famous historical figures such as Leonardo da Vinci and Isaac Newton, were shown to have been created in the 20th century.
10.4. The Priory of Sion – Cultural Impact
Despite the controversy surrounding its authenticity, the idea of the Priory of Sion has had a significant cultural impact. It has been featured in various works of fiction and has become synonymous with secret historical knowledge and conspiracy theories regarding religious history.
10.5. The Priory of Sion – Modern Mythos
Today, the Priory of Sion is often regarded as a modern mythos—a legend that has been perpetuated through popular culture and continues to inspire curiosity and speculation. Whether as historical truth or as a compelling narrative, the Priory of Sion has cemented its place in the annals of esoteric lore.
In the end, the Priory of Sion, whether real or fictitious, stands as a testament to humanity’s fascination with secret societies and the allure of hidden knowledge. Its story is a blend of history, mystery, and the enduring human desire to find deeper meaning in the shadows of the past.
In conclusion
These secret societies, with their rich histories and enigmatic practices, continue to capture the imagination of people around the world. While some have had a profound impact on the course of history, others remain the subjects of speculation and intrigue.