Opposition to freemasonry, a secret fraternal organization, often based on religious or political concerns about its secretive nature and influence.
From anti- (against) + masonry (the practice and beliefs of freemasons). The term emerged in the early 19th century during periods of public suspicion about Masonic organizations and their hidden rituals.
The Anti-Masonic Party in 1820s America was actually the first 'third party' in U.S. politics, born from anger over a freemason's suspected role in covering up a murder—proving that conspiracy fears can literally reshape political landscapes.
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