Few names spark as much curiosity as “the Illuminati.” For some it means secret power; for others, enlightenment and knowledge. But where did the name come from, and what does it really mean? This guide separates history from myth.
The original Illuminati
The historical Illuminati — properly the Bavarian Illuminati — was founded on 1 May 1776 by Adam Weishaupt, a professor of canon law at the University of Ingolstadt in Bavaria. According to Encyclopaedia Britannica, it began as a society of freethinkers inspired by the Enlightenment ideals of reason, knowledge and self-improvement. Its members called themselves “Perfectibilists,” reflecting a belief that people could better themselves and society through learning.
At its height the order grew from a handful of students to more than 2,000 members across Europe, connecting with Masonic lodges along the way. The Bavarian government banned the society in 1785, and the original order faded from the historical record — after which it took on a second life in centuries of legend and conspiracy theory.
What the name means today
Over time, “Illuminati” — from the Latin for “the enlightened” — came to stand for the pursuit of knowledge, unity and human progress. That is the meaning the Secrets of Illuminati community carries forward: not secret control, but shared learning and the advancement of humanity. You can read more about what we stand for on our Our Beliefs page and About Us page.
Why the myths grew
Because the original order was secretive and then suppressed, imaginations filled the gaps. As historians note, the group’s real influence was limited mostly to intellectual circles of its time — yet its mystique only grew after it disappeared. Understanding the genuine history is the best antidote to the myths.
Frequently Asked Questions
When were the Illuminati founded?
The Bavarian Illuminati were founded on 1 May 1776 by Adam Weishaupt.
What does “Illuminati” mean?
It comes from the Latin for “the enlightened,” reflecting a focus on knowledge and reason.
Do the Illuminati still exist?
The original Bavarian order was banned in 1785. Today, communities such as the Secrets of Illuminati carry the name’s ideals of knowledge and unity forward.